As a way to practice communication skills and gain scientific knowledge straight from the source, students from Congress Middle School in Boynton Beach, Fla. had the chance to interview two scientists:  bat biologist, Aditi Jayarajan, and invertebrate paleontologist, Kris Kusnerik.

Five classes, totaling over 150 students, spent the day with the scientists learning about their research and why the general public should find it important. The visit was coordinated by the Scientist in Every Florida School program, an initiative led by the UF Thompson Earth Systems Institute.

While listening to both scientists, students rattled off questions and feverishly took notes. The scientists didn’t come empty handed to Congress Middle either. Students interacted with fossil specimens from the Florida Museum of Natural History, as well as intricately detailed 3D prints of various bat species.

“After the visit last Friday with the scientists, students arrived Monday with a bell ringer to start the day.  The question posed:  Explain an interesting fact you learned during the visit with Scientist in Every Florida School,” said Beatriss Powell, a science teacher at Congress Middle School.

“I couldn’t believe how much they recounted and how engaged they were at the start of class. Thanks for organizing such an amazing experience for my students.  I really appreciate it and look forward to working with SEFS again in the future.”

Perhaps the expressions on the students’ faces from the day say it best.