Igniting Curiosity: A Groundbreaking First Year for SNHS at Spalding High School

By Jane Burke - SNHS sponsor

SNHS and Science Club members in good standing receive either lab coats, names on lab coats, or lab goggles at the End of Year Celebration at our May meeting!

This year marked an exciting milestone at Science National Honor Society as students and leaders launched the very first chapter at Spalding High School. From hands-on STEM experiences to community outreach and service, our inaugural year was filled with discovery, leadership, and inspiration.

We began the year with a special induction ceremony welcoming 13 outstanding students into the organization. To make the evening memorable, our officers designed personalized flame tests for each new member, allowing students to burn the color representing their preferred STEM field. This unique ceremony symbolized the spark of curiosity and passion that would guide the year ahead.

SNHS leaders also hosted a thriving science club at SHS with 45 active members. The club met monthly and provided students with opportunities to explore STEM through guest speakers, laboratory activities, and educational trips. Students heard from local STEM professionals and researchers from University of Georgia Griffin Campus who shared real-world experiences and career pathways in science and technology.

Throughout the year, students participated in several unforgettable STEM experiences. One highlight was a visit to University of West Georgia for a STEM tour and hands-on laboratory activities. Another favorite trip included the iFLY STEM program, followed by visits to Tellus Science Museum for the “Astronomer’s Toolbox” workshop and the Night Observatory program, where students explored astronomy in an engaging and interactive setting.

Academic leadership was another major focus of the organization. Every SNHS member was expected to present one research lecture on a scientific topic of their choice, while officers challenged themselves by presenting two lectures during the year. These presentations allowed students to strengthen both their scientific knowledge and public speaking skills.

The chapter’s largest accomplishment was organizing Spalding High School’s very first STEM Night for local elementary students. Each SNHS volunteer taught a hands-on module and served as a buddy to a future scientist throughout the evening. Watching younger students explore STEM concepts with excitement and curiosity made the event especially rewarding for members.

Service also played an important role in the chapter’s mission. Members participated in local stream cleanups during both the fall and spring in partnership with the Griffin Water Authority, helping protect and improve the local environment.

To celebrate the year’s success, members in good standing in both science club and SNHS received rewards including lab coats with embroidered names or lab goggles. As the first year comes to a close, the future of SNHS at Spalding High School is already shining brightly.