Science Club, led and ran by Dr. Hylok, is a club where students interested in science-based fields learn about new and exciting things relating to the topic. They typically meet at least 1-2 times a month, and the meetings are always engaging in what the students find interesting while also being informational.
Some activities they focus on are STEM based projects, focusing on designing and building – like pop-bottle ecosystems, solar ovens, and windmills that generate energy. Other activities vary, as they even look into their own DNA, make their own ice cream, propagate plants, and determine what habitat meal worms prefer.
Recently, the latest meeting consisted of the Papillion NRD coming to the school and bringing a bunch of live critters, and talking about their adaptations. Many students found interest in the live animals; it brings students who share the same interests together while also sharing important information. The next meeting will consist of building a “mini vehicle” that will be able to transport toxic waste and then crash to see if it can withstand the impact.
Science Club encourages all to come to experience the excitement science brings to every day life. Even if you aren’t as interested in the science aspect, the club not only focuses on that! They partake in competitions like building gingerbread houses and decorating pumpkins.
The club ultimately prepares students with an interest in intellectual knowledge about science and prepares them for the real world, where they would be able to use the information learned to better prepare for their career. Many students who have attended also stated they enjoyed the projects done and that it’s entertaining. “I really like it because we do scientific activities, but it’s still fun.” Student Jaynie White exclaimed. Seeing the live critters helped bring a lot of people together, as I went last year, I found it entertaining to see how different animals adapt in their environment. We also were able to hold the critters, which was mine and a lot of other people’s favorite part!
Science Club is run mainly by Dr. Hylok, and is one of very few other clubs here at Papio South that doesn’t contain a President or Vice President. Students like Anya Mahajan and Gavin Dechant come in regularly and assist the club immensely. You don’t necessarily have to be only focused on science, because this club brings diversity among each project completed!
The program exists because of the students. Without the interest of outside learning, the school wouldn’t be able to bring in these fascinating creatures or have the funds to assemble their projects. Any interest is important, so if you’re interested in meeting new friends, learning new things, and potentially helping you in your future, Science Club is waiting for you in room 355!
