Mr. Wizard's traveling road show made a pit stop at Oak Grove Elementary School recently, dazzling students and teachers with the incredible wonders of science. The show, entitled "Science Challenges," had students doing everything from mixing potions to blowing rolls of toilet paper across the gym. Hosted by Rob Savage, the presentation was part of an on-going, culturally enriching series funded by the school's PTO.

The science show was also an extension of how elementary students learn science in the county. "At the elementary grade level, the main focus is on hands-on exploration," said Dr. Sharon Boyer, the Fayette County Coordinator for Science and Health. She added that she believes kids and science are a natural combination: "Science is for every kid, no matter what. Kids are surrounded by it and they are excited about it."

According to Boyer, the school district completed the adoption of a new science program two years ago, based on new state curriculum objectives. What they discovered was that students needed more time to master information while tackling fewer topics.

"There are big ideas in science and the students need to master those," Boyer said. "We've created more time to go into depth."

Habitats which provide a place for children to see, touch, build and grow plants and animals are now part of many of the county's schools. "Habitats are a great example of making science relevant," Boyer said. With start-up money provided by the state, the schools have created rich outdoor environments. Parents and teachers have contributed time and energy to beautify and improve them.

While textbooks are a component of the district's science program, Boyer advocates an active approach. "Understanding really is doing and figuring out problems," she said.

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