by Mike Lesko

Editor

Bedford -- Paula Jesiolkiewic loves the students' enthusiasm when she puts on science demonstrations.

"You can see their faces light up when you're working with them," she said.

Jesiolkiewic, a project development associate for Siemens Building Technologies, led a Science Day project Jan. 30 at Holy Spirit Academy in Bedford as part of National Catholic Schools Week.

About 60 students in grades 3-5 took part. They were assisted by eight students from St. Peter Chanel High School in Bedford.

Students, working in groups of 10, focused on water filtration. After creating dirty water at five different stations, they filtered it through various materials like pebbles, sand and carbon, then discussed what they saw.

"They filtered dirt, color and fragrance to try and obtain clear, clean water," she said. "Afterward, we discussed the end results."

Jesiolkiewic views part of the hands-on event as a mini-energy awareness session.

"It's a chance to remind them of the little things they can do every day to save our natural resources like water and electricity," she said.

"Turning off the lights when you leave a room and not leaving the water running in the sink when you brush your teeth -- these are small ways they can contribute every day," she said.

"If the students take these changes home and help influence their families, the impact is magnified by the energy savings that the residents will see," she said.

Jesiolkiewic's home office is in Pittsburgh. This was her second annual trip to Holy Spirit Academy.

"The students seem to really get engaged," she said. "And I am always amazed by the enthusiasm I am greeted with when it comes to the teachers.

"My favorite part of the day is after each group goes through the water filtration cycle, having the chance to sit with the students and talk to them about their observations," she said.

Jesiolkiewic also praised the student mentors from Chanel. They included Ryan Kendrick, Tylah Shorter-Deal, Corrine Teklitz, Chris Webb, Kevin Hatcher, Dan Gittinger, Tom Gittinger and Lisa Sakal along with their teacher, Ed Gotch.

"The elementary school students really look up to them," Jesiolkiewic said. "Having them participate is such a win-win for the students and the community."

E-mail: mlesko@recordpub.com

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