The “Day with a Scientist” program at Clay Hill Memorial Forest. was designed to bring science to life for participating middle and high school students.  This program allosw students who have already expressed a strong interest in science, to spend a day working with a mentor scientist and learning what it might be like to pursue a science career. 

A grant from Kentucky Utilities allows Clay Hill to bring scientists and others employed in a field of science.  With 305 acres including forested areas, tall grass prairies, a fossil display, wetlands and a historical component including cabin sites dating back to the 1800’s CHMF is a living laboratory.  Workshops thus far have included herpetology, archaeology, dendroarchaeology, prescribed burning as a ecological tool, ornithology, and paleontology.  Each presenter shares with students the educational requirements to work within their particular field and the journey that led them from a particular interest to where they are now.  

These workshops are meant to be a potentially formative experience for participating students in their effort to choose a career.  Exposing students to actual field based experiences with professionals has the potential to broaden their horizons. Participating teachers have commented that these workshops encourage an appreciation of nature, both aesthetic and historical and also provide a springboard for further research outside the classroom.   
 
If you are interested in our bringing a small group of your students to a workshop you may contact us by email. Put "Day with a Scientist" in the subject header.  We will also send out emails to teachers who are on our contact list. If you are not on that list, please contact us