It’s a very positive thing when students get excited about learning. F.C. Boyd Christian High School students were part of the BCS Special Response Team Science Camp, providing them a hands-on approach to learning.
The two-day camp was held at Short Mountain Bible Camp under the direction of Boyd science teacher Curt Darby. The camp is co-sponsored by Thompson and Associates, Cannon County Ambulance District, Cannon County Rescue Squad and Vanderbilt LifeFlight, who were all onsite sharing information and training.
“Lots of the students have expressed interest in these fields, and this was a great opportunity for them to experience them first hand,” said Darby.
Students learned first aid techniques, assisting first-responders in stabilizing an accident victim and moving them to an ambulance.
They also worked with fire and rescue personnel, testing breathing apparatus and equipment. They were able to tour the LifeFlight helicopter, learning the many duties from nurses and the pilot.
“This was our fifth camp, and we do a different theme each time to highlight the practical aspects of what they learn in different science classes,” said Darby.
He was assisted in the many duties by teachers Drew Milligan and Sue Darby, and parents Mary and Tony Mason, Teresa Stinson and Merrill Oliver.
The 36 students in attendance practiced physics by testing design characteristics in different paper airplanes. They also practiced skills learned in biology and chemistry.
Testing the efficiency of Germ-X and other hand sanitizers was a challenging activity, identifying bacteria and deciding which product was the most effective through a testing process.
Junior student Kayt Deeriso said, “I had so much fun, genuine happiness at this camp. I’m rethinking what I want to do in college. Honestly, going to these camps have made me a nature person, and I’m thankful for the opportunity.”
Several fun activities were planned for the group, including a nature scavenger hunt, canoeing and other outdoor games. Some of the students said going on a “snipe hunt” was one of the highlights for them, and hope to plan another with other unsuspecting participants.
“Science camp is always my favorite part of the school year,” said sophomore Adeline Travis. “I’m so happy and grateful we get to have it, and I’m very thankful for the Darbys. I can’t wait for next year!”
