young women in science

Women in Science

Part of supporting girls interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) is enhancing their public school experiences in these disciplines. The Women in Science promotes deeper understanding for both teachers and students by bringing in practicing women specialists from around the northeast into southern Berkshire County to be “scientists-in-residence”.

Flying Cloud staff works with the classroom teachers from grades four through eight to determine which visiting specialists will enhance their curriculum. Each visitor donates a half day to make a presentation about her work, showing how it relates to what the children are learning, followed by hands-on experiences. These women provide role models for girls who aspire to become scientists and help dispel the misperception that STEM careers are for men only. They also raise the standard of instruction by answering questions from students and teachers and introducing new laboratory investigations. Girls who are participants in YWIS summer programs and clubs have lunch with the visiting scientist where they can ask questions and share ideas.

Topics for 2007 -2008 included Astronomy with Dr. Heide Jo Newberg from RPI, and Magnetism with Dr. Courtney Lannert from Wellesley College, and Physics with Dr, Adrienne Wooters from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts.