SANDPOINT — Boom. Splash. Whoosh.

Science and technology students from Sandpoint High School demonstrated the wild side of science during the school's fourth annual Science Circuit.

Friday’s event turned out nearly 1,000 people, including fifth- and sixth-grade students, high school students, local scientists, families and community members — all of whom traveled around the circuit to learn about and participate in a variety of interactive exhibits. These interactive exhibits demonstrated the magic, intrigue, and significance of science in our world and in our lives.

Scientists from Litehouse, the aerospace program, and Panhandle Animal Shelter alongside the high school honors chemistry, physics, CAD4, and information systems students wowed the kids with amazing demonstrations. 

The goal of the event was to create student and community awareness for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), and the Lake Pend Oreille School District’s commitment to science education.

The Science Circuit featured 30 interactive exhibits for fifth- and sixth-grade students throughout the school day and was open to the public Friday evening. Exhibits made the molecular world larger than life, launched mini rockets to investigate jet fuel sources, churned out some delicious liquid nitrogen ice cream, and more.

High school students planned their exhibits as part of a year-long independent study based on personal interests, the social significance of their topics, and the ability to create hands-on experiences with their investigations.

Students also reached out to STEM professionals in the community, who were invited to share how their organizations use science in innovative ways. Litehouse food scientist, Katie Clayton, shared the perplexing world of non-Newtonian fluids to demonstrate the chemistry behind pourable dressings and dippable dips. Ken Larson, instructor for the North Idaho High School Aerospace Program, showed students what it takes to learn to fly and pursue other high demand aerospace careers. Marcia Kirby and Devin Laundrie with the Panhandle Animal Shelter brought microchipping technology to share how this science has advanced in recent years.

The exhibits were as varied as my students’ interests, from the biochemistry of the food we eat to the electrochemistry of car engines that run on water. Their passion for their research was evident with the energy and enthusiasm they poured into the event.

The broader goal of the Science Circuit is to connect k-12 STEM education experiences with the tremendous career opportunities in STEM fields. Research emphasizes the importance of local role models when it comes to students pursuing STEM careers. The Science Circuit provides a platform to bring together a variety of STEM professionals with students of all levels. High school students stepped up as role models while standing side-by-side with Sandpoint’s scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs.