On Thursday, May 23, Lisha Kill Middle School hosted a mock infectious disease outbreak for sixth-grade students. The event was organized by members of The Wadsworth Center, NYS Department of Health (NYSDOH) from Albany. This immersive experience aimed to develop students' scientific skills and foster an appreciation for the extensive measures taken by the scientific community in such events.

The library classroom was transformed into a hub of scientific investigation during the one-and-a-half-hour experiment. Students were guided through various activities designed to simulate the process of tracking and controlling an infectious disease outbreak. The interactive group activities encouraged students to work together to problem solve, applying classroom knowledge in a practical setting. This hands-on approach enhanced their understanding of scientific concepts and procedures, demonstrating how they would be implemented in real-world scenarios.

“The Wadsworth Center staff provided a wonderful experience for our sixth graders,” said Lisha Kill Principal Jill Penn. “Kara Mitchell and her team ensured that our students received expert guidance throughout the exercise. The interactive portions allowed students to use specialized equipment, sparking their interest in scientific exploration.”

The success of this event can be credited to the dedicated professionals who went above and beyond to provide students with an unforgettable experience, as well as the eagerness of our students to try something new. The mock outbreak highlighted the importance of practical, interactive learning in STEAM education and demonstrated the quick thinking necessary for scientists daily.

“Our school community looks forward to future opportunities to collaborate with The Wadsworth Center, continuing to strengthen the connection between our students and the scientific community,” Penn added. 

To learn more about the Wadsworth Center, visit their website.