Schools

Birmingham Students Dive Into Science With 'Medicine that Matters' Program

The year-long program, funded in part by a grant from the Birmingham Education Foundation, will focus on the world of medicine and integrate a Scientist in Residence program and college mentoring.

Birmingham's prospective doctors: take note.

Students at Birmingham Public Schools will have the chance to explore the world of health and medicine this year as part of the district's new curriculum project, Expedition 2013: Medicine that Matters.

Coming on the heels of Expedition 2012: NASA Day, in which Birmingham students had the chance to talk to an astronaut and explore the science around space travel, Medicine that Matters takes a closer look at the sciences, business skills and history that make up the medical field.

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"Think biology, chemistry, physics, public policy, health insurance, medical ethics, election issues, art therapy, medical illustrations, medical history, blood drives, service learning, nutrition, biomedical engineering, nursing and so much more," said Jennifer Gottlieb, science coordinator for Birmingham Public Schools.

"We are hoping that classrooms across the district — kindergarten through 12th grade — will find ways to engage students in science in new ways and make connections across all curricula," she said.

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Funding for Medicine that Matters comes partly from the Birmingham Education Foundation (BEF), which regularly provides more than $100,000 in classroom grants each year.

"The BEF is currently looking to sponsor projects that reinforce this yearlong focus on Medicine that Matters," said Laura Couger, executive director of the BEF. "We are excited to support learning experiences that engage all students and that demonstrate how science can be integrated at all grade levels and curricula."

As part of the program, students across the district will take a closer look at the world of medicine in the classroom, during field trips and as part of projects that go beyond science class.

The project culminates in an evening exhibition on April 25, featuring various projects from throughout the year.

"Working together with the BEF, we will support many different science activities throughout the year, along with the culminating experience on April 25," Gottlieb said. "Working together, we will ensure that these learning opportunities are meaningful, connected and reach as many students as possible."

Parents and community members are invited to participate in Medicine that Matters as well. The district is currently seeking medical professionals and scientists willing to share their experiences as part of a new Scientist in Residence program. 

The district is also seeking college students interested in mentoring students in 4th, 5th and 8th grade. The mentoring project will begin in January.

To participate in Medicine that Matters, contact Gottlieb at 248-203-3550. More information can be found at http://www.supportbef.org/academics.html.


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