Round Lake Middle School science students to visit CLC labs Nov. 13

Sixth grade science students from Round Lake Middle School (RLMS) will come to the College of Lake County on Nov. 13 to explore science and technology in seven laboratories and classrooms. The lab visits, part of the Round Lake school's College Science Day, are designed to complement the sixth grade science curriculum, which includes engineering, mechanics, design, astronomy and electricity.

In small groups, the RLMS students will visit up to seven different labs to gain insight into CLC's programs in laser/photonics/optics, heating/ventilation/air conditioning technology, automotive technology, automotive collision repair, electrical engineering, robotics, geology and astronomy.

Christian Roldán-Johnson, associate dean of Engineering, Math and Physical Sciences (EMPS), said College Science Day is designed to demonstrate the practical applications of science and technology and the many career fields available.

"I decided in middle school that I really liked math, and I eventually became a math teacher," Roldán-Johnson said. "In the same way, we want to expose these students, their teachers and parent chaperones to the many exciting science-based concepts and careers taught at CLC and show them that we care about the students' future career goals."

RLMS English as a New Language/science teacher Daniel Roldán approached college staff at the beginning of the school year to organize the event. "CLC staff were enthusiastic about the possibility of hosting our sixth graders," said Roldán. "This trip will give our students a hands-on experience in STEM that they will remember forever."

Some of the fun and hands-on activities the students will participate in include "virtually" spray painting a car, looking through telescopes and manipulating Baxter, the mechatronics program's robot, according to Roldán-Johnson. "Through these activities, we hope to plant some seeds in the kids' minds and provide them a memorable day."

In addition to faculty from the EMPS division and Round Lake Middle School administrators and teachers, staff from CLC's College Readiness and Enrollment Services departments will participate as hosts and chaperones. Dr. Constance Collins, superintendent of Round Lake Area Schools, plans to visit CLC during the morning activities, as does CLC Provost Dr. Rich Haney.