Franklin Science Night a big hit

Emily Southwood - On Friday, January 20th Franklin Elementary School hosted their second successful edition of Science Night. Some seventy parents and children, as well as a fair share of grandparents, attended the fun evening that revolved around families trying their hands at a science experiment. Mr. David D’Aoust, the Chairman of the New Frontiers School Board, captured the spirit of the extremely successful event with the description: “There were times when fathers and mothers were so intensely involved with their sons and daughters that you could hear a pin drop in the room. Even grandparents participated and served as wise coaches with smiling faces.” The night kicked off at 5pm as families gathered in the gymnasium for a light dinner. Food for the event was donated by a local food bank and prepared by Franklin 5th and 6th graders under the supervision of parent, local chef, and Chairperson of the Governing Board, Marie Shewchuk. She commented: “I’m so proud to be a part of a wonderful evening like this that brings the community together and shows the public just how much this school has to offer!” Following mealtime, participants engaged in one of four possible experiments such as making a Styrofoam car with a battery (that actually goes!), and for the littlest participants, excavating dinosaurs out of a block of frozen ice. After putting everyone’s brains and cooperation skills to the test, the results were judged, and gifts bestowed on the most inventive creations of the evening. The importance of parental involvement is an approach that resonates strongly with Franklin and Hemmingford Principal, James Walker, MA. “Events like this one and our Family Literacy Night in Hemmingford give us the chance to increase the bond between the school and the community and to support our students,” he continued. “My favourite aspect of these events is to see the parents or grandparents participating in activities with their kids and how they all have huge smiles on their faces.” Following last year’s inaugural Science Night, which was held just for Franklin parents and students, this year organizers decided to welcome the surrounding community. Principal Walker explained that throughout the year, the school board undertakes a number of initiatives to support the community, including offering 0-3 playgroups, community café, and supporting the local firefighters pancake supper. He elaborated, “Given this philosophy, it was a natural fit to invite the community and make a science experiment for families of children 0-3. We hope to continue this tradition next year and host our third Science Night.” Families looking for another outing will want to take note of Hemmingford Elementary School’s Family Literacy Night, slated for March 1. Keep up with all of their events @FranklinElementaryNFSB and @HemmingfordElementarySchool on Facebook