Maine 4-H Tech Wizards project launch - volunteers needed

BRYANT POND — The University of Maine Cooperative Extension has received funding to implement the National 4-H Tech Wizards Program. The mission of 4-H Tech Wizards-Maine is to engage students ages eight to 17 in small group mentoring programs focusing on the use of technology. This program puts special emphasis on service learning, fulfilling community needs focusing on conservation projects. Tech Wizards will be held both in classrooms and after school, encouraging students to gain knowledge in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) related fields.

Bryant Pond 4-H Camp and Learning center will be hosting Tech Wizards and is partnering with many of the local schools. In the Telstar District, Tech Wizards programs will be happening in Marie Keane’s Crescent Park fifth grade classroom, Tonya Prentice’s Woodstock fifth grade classroom, and in the Mahoosuc Kids After School Program at Telstar High School. In the Oxford Hills District programs will be conducted in all three of the Paris Elementary School fifth grade classrooms and at the Oxford Hills Middle School for a select group of students.

The staff at Bryant Pond is looking for community volunteers to serve as Mentors for the Tech Wizards program. Mentors will work with small groups of youth, helping Bryant Pond staff teach Tech Wizards curriculum. This year’s projects include building underwater robots to help in the eradication of Variable Leaf Milfoil (an invasive aquatic plant) in Bryant Pond and other lakes in our area, and documenting this process by digital photography and filmmaking. Mentors with skills in digital photography and film, basic electronics and experience working with youth are needed. Training will be provided for the right individuals.

For more information, call Lyndsey Smith, Lakeside Classroom Coordinator, at 665-2507 or e-mail lyndsey.smith@maine.edu.