WASHINGTON –
Naval Air Facility (NAF) Washington Sailors partnered with William Paca Elementary School, Feb. 3. to help judge a science fair at the Prince George's County school.
The event, in its sixth year, has been judged by NAF Washington Sailors for the last four years.
"This is my second year volunteering and I enjoy doing it," said Mrs. Magdalena Ponce, NAF Washington Comptroller officer. "It's the right thing to do and inspiring while hearing from the kids is very amazing."
More than 150 students, from first to sixth grade, displayed projects to be judged by their guests.
"It was amazing to observe the students' work," said Logistic Specialist Second Class (EXW) Sherry Freeman. "A few students in particular stood out because they actually connected the dots to real world experiences."
"One student did her experiment on the effects of how alcohol damages the liver," said LS2 Freeman. "The other student learned that a potato will provide the same effect as double "A" batteries."
"I was really impressed not only with the projects, but how the children were answering all the questions we asked," said Yeoman Second Class Liliana Rosario. "It was hard to pick the top three from all the projects."
Teachers and Sailors alike questioned students about their projects and graded them based on creativity, knowledge of the subject and the scientific processes.
"The students were easily impressed with the Sailors because they were approachable," said Ms. Vanessa Lofton, teacher at William Paca Elementary School. "As I watched the interviews, I noticed that students wanted to impress the Sailors with their projects."
"It gave them a sense of accomplishment to have the opportunity to interact with young men and women in uniform in a positive manner," Ms. Lofton continued.
"I believe that students and Sailors benefited from the experience," said LS2 Freeman. "It provides the opportunity to allow the Sailors to see what the public schools system is offering and the students to see positive role models in their community."
"Having the Sailors as judges continues to be a highlight of our students' experiences with the STEM fair," said Ms. Lofton. "We thank them for all their support and flexibility with their busy schedules."