GENERATING EARLY CHILDHOOD STUDENTS EXCITEMENT FOR SCIENCE BY EXPOSURE TO FOSSILS THROUGH A COMMUNITY SCHOOLS MODEL

Students in underrepresented communities often lack the opportunity to be exposed early in life to science, harming interest in science that can often be long term. More than ever, it is imperative the next generation have a firm understanding of science in order to be informed about climate change and the modern biodiversity crisis. Fossils are often a relatable entry point to scientific engagement and can spark the imagination of school-aged children and grab their interest. The goal of our program is to excite 1st and 2nd grade students in the Binghamton, NY region about science through fossils using a Community Schools model. Binghamton undergraduates visited 3 elementary schools in three districts, with plans to expand to more in the future. The students interacted with the fossils and educators, strengthening their observation skills while being exposed to university students of diverse backgrounds. Through these community partnerships, the elementary-aged students were able to strengthen their science identities by seeing those who look similar to them in science roles, and learn more about ancient life on our planet. Our model represents a prime collaboration between different university divisions in order to support community engagement initiatives within the geosciences community.