Science fair returns
WEM fifth grade teacher Rachael Wetzel utilized the website DonorsChoose.org to fund her students’ basic science fair supplies in an effort to bring back the school’s science fair, which will be held March 22 in Morristown. (Photo courtesy of Rachael Wetzel)
Donors respond to teacher’s request for funding, supplies
Fifth grade teacher Rachael Wetzel wanted to bring back the science fair to Waterville- Elysian-Morristown Schools, but with more than a third of her students coming from low-income families, the extra financial burden of the projects was worrisome.
But, instead of giving up, Wetzel brainstormed a new way to fund a science fair.
Utilizing the website DonorsChoose. org, Wetzel posted her request for funding. It read: “Spectacular Science Fair Display Boards - Help me give my students the materials needed to create an awesome science fair display board!”
She also listed the basic materials needed for all 82 WEM fifth graders: Trifold presentation boards, markers, brightly colored paper, rubber cement, and lots of card stock.
The price of each item and the quantities needed were also posted.
The goal was $499.
“By providing these materials I would be able to eliminate that cost to each of the families. It would also mean that all students would start on a level playing field,” she explained.
The post went live on January 19.
Eight days later, the goal was reached.
“It was amazing. I’m so grateful for the support and to be able to bring this handson, interactive learning experience to my students that they will carry with them for many years to come!” Wetzel stated.
Of the 13 donors who gave money for the project, some were parents of....
To see more on this story pick up the March 7, 2019 print edition of the Lake Region Life or The Elysian Enterprise.
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