Press Room
Page Navigation
- Charleston County School District
- 2019-2020 News
STEAM professionals inspire James Island Elementary students
Close to 400 students and family members from James Island Elementary School met scientists from the Lowcountry at the school’s Women in Science Night on March 23, 2023. The event was designed to show how women impact lives through various skills and techniques in their daily occupations.
“The journey our staff took to put on this event allowed us to see that there is no limit to what women can do in the workforce,” said Principal Jonetta Gregory.
More than 50 female scientists shared their knowledge and encouraged all students to explore and participate in STEAM (Science, Technology, Education, Arts, and Math) projects and careers. Meteorologists, herbalists, molecular biologists, doctors, nurses, nutritionists, pharmacists, and veterinarians attended the community event, which gave students multiple hands-on experiences.
James Island Elementary’s Women in Science Night aligns with CCSD’s Pillar Two (high-quality teachers and leaders) and Pillar Three (wrap-around services), which are two of the three Pillars that uphold the district’s mission of educating and supporting every child in achieving college, career, and citizenship readiness.
“The STEAM Committee at James Island Elementary is are paving the way for girls to embrace their present curiosities so they can become innovative leaders in the future,” explained Danielle Chisolm, a fifth grade teacher and the school’s STEAM team leader.
Women in Science Night gave girls at James Island Elementary an opportunity to work together in teams, exercise their talents, and have fun while learning. The engagement sessions included simulating bird beak adaptations, DNA/RNA gene activity, creating liquid nitrogen flowers, and exploring sensory fidgets.
"Lise Meitner, an Austrian-Swedish physicist said ‘science makes people reach selflessly for truth and objectivity,’” added Chisolm. “The woman who is involved with the discovery of the protactinium element and nuclear physician also said science ‘teaches people to accept reality, with wonder and admiration, not to mention the deep awe and joy that the natural order of things brings to the true scientist.’ We hope this night, and future events like this, inspire our Beacons to pursue those characteristics and emotions.”
For more information about James Island Elementary’s Women in Science Night, or additional STEAM-related opportunities at the school, contact Danielle Chisolm at danielle_chisolm@charleston.k12.sc.us.