Lawrence Math & Science Partnership
Middle school students in Lawrence, Mass. are building their skills in science and math and receiving homework help from Merrimack College students through a Learn and Service program funded by the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNS).
A $295,000, three-year grant to Merrimack College and seven community partners has created the Lawrence Math and Science Partnership for Lawrence middle school students, grades 5 through 8, who are challenged both in the classroom and by the MCAS exam.
The program helps to connect middle schools to future life choices, such as college and career options. Participants, both male and female, learn that science and math are important and engaging. The program fosters pride in their accomplishments and provides positive role models for middle schoolers as they work closely with college students.
Community Partners
Joining Merrimack College in this program are seven community partners: Blessed Stephen Bellesini Academy, Asian Center of the Merrimack Valley, ¡Adelante!, Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence, Lawrence Family Development Charter School, the Spar and Spindle Girl Scouts Council at Esperanza Academy and our newest partner, St. Mary's of the Assumption School.
The Lawrence Math and Science Partnership:
Merrimack students visit seven after-school sites in Lawrence and serve as learning mentors for 20 weeks on a once a week basis throughout the school year. They engage the youngsters in hands-on enrichment activities based in the areas of physical and biological science and math. Led by Merrimack through the Stevens Service Learning Center, the after-school program operates throughout the academic year.
Inquiry-based activities have included:
- pollution and its harmful effects on the environment
- studying the effects of proper food preparation in order to prevent food-borne illnesses
- measuring lung capacity and pulse rates before and after exercise
- investigate the importance of oral health
- understanding how vaccines help to prevent infectious diseases
Participants
Merrimack student mentors receive a training that includes instruction and participation in science workshops as well as exploration of cultural and diversity issues and the middle school mindset. Such trainings help to foster a better understanding of the challenges and experiences of middle school students, especially those of students who often speak English as a second language. Merrimack students and faculty of all majors and disciplines participate, either by direct service, or through volunteering their time in the development of the program's curriculum.
At the Heart of Merrimack's Mission
The program speaks to the heart of Merrimack College’s mission. Service to the community is significant part of the college’s Augustinian tradition. The Stevens Center for Service Learning at Merrimack integrates volunteer opportunities with various academic courses, placing students in many non-profit and service organizations. Service learning brings students into the life and needs of the communities that surround Merrimack College and also brings those community needs into the life of the college curriculum.
Sharing Knowledge
In sharing their knowledge and time, Merrimack students learn and benefit as well, gaining invaluable experience not possible in the traditional classroom. Merrimack College service learning students - science and non-science majors alike - enhance their problem-solving, scientific literacy and technical skills. Participation in the program also enhances the civic and social responsibility for Merrimack students. They develop skills in experimental design, data analysis, critical thinking, teamwork and communication. Merrimack students also gain an understanding of the cultural and socio-economic diversity that exists just four miles away from campus.
Future Goals
With continued support from the Learn and Serve federal program as well as additional support from corporations and foundations, the Lawrence Math and Science Partnership will continue to foster positive learning relationships and experiences for middle school students. The Stevens Center will work creatively with its partners to build on the current program, engage more individuals, as well as continue to tutor, mentor and guide students from middle school to high school to college and beyond.
About the Corporation for National and Community Service
The Corporation for National and Community Service (CNS) provides opportunities for Americans of all ages and backgrounds to service their communities through three programs: Senior Corp, Americorps, and Learn and Service America. Learn and Serve America provides grants to schools, colleges, and nonprofit groups to support efforts to engage students in community service linked to academic achievement and the development of civic skills.
What our Students are Saying
“I think that perhaps the most valuable thing we taught the kids goes far beyond science. We are living proof that college is within their future and it isn’t just for the rich, but anyone who has a love of learning.” Stephen Jensen ‘07
“I didn’t really like science before, but after doing fun experiments, I really like it now, and I like designing the lab reports afterwards.” – Van Cao, youth participant, Asian Center of the Merrimack Valley
“We at the Asian Center of the Merrimack Valley are grateful to Merrimack College who brought the “Learn and Serve Program” to the children at our center. The children really enjoyed doing different experiments and learning about science. The college students motivated children to think about hypotheses that helped them to be creative in their learning.” Le Hang Thi Le staff
Contact Information
For more information, contact
Professor Mary McHugh, Director
Stevens Service Learning Center
Merrimack College
978-837-5123
OR
Leanne Merrill
Coordinator
Stevens Service Learning Center
Merrimack College
978-837-5125