Science Research Program Renaissance Continues
Huntington High School’s science research program continues to undergo a renaissance of sorts, with a teacher determined to lift it to an elite level and a department chairman who stands four-square behind the drive to the top.
“Although the science research program has existed in Huntington for many years, the program has been modified over time,” said David Casamento, director of science and instructional technology. “This year we are in the second year of a program renewal.”
Teacher Lori Pyzocha is the dynamic leader at the forefront of establishing a solid foundation that the district hopes will support a quality program for years to come.
There are currently eight students enrolled in the program for upper grades (10-12) and another 16 participating at the freshman level. The older students meet every other day for one period and the ninth graders report to class daily. “This is a true indication that the program is proliferating,” Mr. Casamento said.
Students in grades 10-12 have mentors advising them and are developing projects geared for various science competitions. “Two of our 12th grade students are entering the Intel and Science Engineering Fair competitions,” Mr. Casamento said. “Both of these are highly competitive and demonstrate the dedication each of these students has toward their project.”
Freshmen are currently learning how to go about conducting and presenting in-depth scientific research, including how to assemble a project, produce the necessary parts for a well-written science paper, etc. “In addition, many of these students also have mentors,” Mr. Casamento said. “The projects are as varied as the backgrounds of the students involved. They are a great group of kids.” The teenagers are already presenting their project ideas in front of classmates, Ms. Pyzocha and Mr. Casamento.
Huntington School Board members and district executives have long desired a top-notch science research program at Huntington High School. With so much interest among younger students, the initiative appears to have taken on new steam.
“I am truly excited about this year and am looking forward to some great accomplishments, especially from our freshmen,” Mr. Casamento said. “I am as dedicated as Ms. Pyzocha to this program. We have great kids working in this program and they should be applauded for their dedication and commitment that is requested of them in this class.”
Mr. Casamento said the program is also in search of more mentors for science research students. Community members interested in volunteering should contact either Ms. Pyzocha (lpyzocha@hufsd.edu) or Mr. Casamento (dcasamento@hufsd.edu). After meeting with a prospective volunteer, the two faculty members will determine if there is a good student-mentor match and go from there.
“We continue to expand the opportunities of this program to all children in the district,” Mr. Casamento said. “This program is truly advancing very quickly and we hope to continue to develop the talents of these students, as well as the talents of many more students to come. We knew Huntington was a science community and this program is one of many examples of this slogan in action.”
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