Anonymous Donor Helps Saint Viator Students Explore Science Opportunities

Through the generous gift of an anonymous donor, members of the Saint Viator High School Science Club are exploring new opportunities in science and engineering this year. The 2016 donation is being put to good use by faculty member and Science Club moderator Rob Peterson.

"Because of this generous donation, the Saint Viator Science Club now has financial support on par with the educational support provided by administrators and science faculty. Administrators have trusted me to take this club in a new direction, and faculty have encouraged growth of the club by providing ideas for projects and purchasing t-shirts to promote Science Club among our students," said Peterson. "The students and I would like to express our deep gratitude to my fellow faculty members, the Saint Viator Administration and particularly, the donor. Everyone involved wants to see this club thrive and provide students with real-word learning opportunities that they will carry with them long after they graduate."

Among the projects planned for the spring semester are a challenge to build a tower from provided materials to see which can withstand a simulated earthquake on a shake table, a competition between Peterson and student groups to see who can build a bridge of balsa wood that will support the heaviest weight, designing and launching rockets using compressed air and water, and studying the building and programming of a simple robot.

"In today's educational environment and job market, emphasis on science, technology and engineering are paramount to success," said Saint Viator Director of Recruitment Jason Kuffel. "The exceptional work that Mr. Peterson is doing is critical to developing the skills students need to compete when they leave Saint Viator. We are intently focused on providing expanded opportunities for our students across multiple areas of our curriculum. Experiences like this are very tangible examples of how our alumni and donors really make a difference."

To learn more about the educational opportunities available at Saint Viator High School, visit www.saintviator.com or call Jason Kuffel at 847) 392-4050, ext. 256.