The SEFS team ran into elementary science specialist and teacher, Janet Schnauss, while attending the Florida Association of Science Teachers (FAST) in October.  While talking about the SEFS program with her, she shared her personal experiences with bringing one of our UF paleontologist favorites, Jeanette Pirlo, into her classroom.  Schnauss explained that Thompson Earth Systems Institute staff, including Pirlo, had executed a series of lessons and activities centered around fossils.  

She stated, “Jeannette Pirlo first came out to our STEM camp for a fossil dig recreation. This engaged my students who attended the program.  One student who was a struggling learner remembered the dig when we were reviewing the rock cycle prior to testing. She remembered that the fossils were found in sedimentary rock and even brought in the sample she was given at STEM camp. Jeanette Pirlo and Bruce McFadden both came out to our STEM night during the school year. This, once again, engaged students and families. I attribute this engagement to helping my students last year test more successfully on the SSA (State Science Exam) than the did in the past. The students connected their experiences with their learning in the classroom. I appreciate everything that Jeanette Pirlo and Bruce McFadden did to make this happen for my school and my students. I know that they will see engagement and positive test results at the other schools they are working with.”

Her story mirrors stories being told by other teachers as well.  These testimonies are all the more reason to continue to connect scientists to schools.