DELPHOS, Ohio (WLIO) – The Science Enhancement for Science Advancement program (SESA) brought hands-on science lessons to Delphos Jefferson Middle School, reaching its 400,000th student.
“This is SESA's 36th year... to see that we've been able to be a success for this long and just roll with the punches, it's so exciting. And it's so meaningful, because now that it's my seventh year coming into the classroom, students recognize me and it's just really meaningful to get to come in and have this opportunity and work with all the students,” said Rachel Smith, SESA teacher-in-residence.
SESA visits every K-8 school in Allen County and in Lima City Schools. Teachers book the free lessons each fall — and spots fill up fast.
"Rachel goes out to every school in Allen County and Lima City Schools. We reach about 10,000 students a year… we're at maximum capacity in about two days," said Sandi Feltz, acting director of SESA.
SESA visits every K-8 school in Allen County and in Lima City Schools. Teachers book the free lessons each fall.
The milestone lesson focused on the water cycle and states of matter. Seventh grader Rylee Cook said it helped make these concepts click.
"When my teacher taught me, I couldn't visualize it, but once I actually saw it, it helped me better understand what the states of matter changes are," Rylee said.
As part of the celebration, a Delphos science teacher received a $1,000 grant to purchase science supplies for the classroom.
"It makes a huge difference because we don't really get too much funding... to get a thousand dollars to use in the classroom, it'll be greatly appreciated and used effectively in my classroom," said Keith Gudakunst, science teacher at Jefferson Middle School.
"Any time you can give in the form of dollars, you can get things in kids' hands. And that's what we do. The city schools, we really pride ourselves in giving kids the ability and the tools they need to be successful in the long haul. We talk about college and career readiness, and what the SESA program does is exactly that," said Jeff Hobbs, superintendent of Delphos City Schools.
As part of the celebration, science teacher Keith Gudakunst received a $1,000 grant to purchase science supplies for the classroom.
SESA is sponsored by local companies including Ashland, Cenovus, INEOS, Nutrien, and Fort Amanda Specialties. It offers 25 rotating lessons to schools at no cost, aiming to spark continued interest in science among the students it serves.
