Green Chimneys

"Equipped with his five senses, man explores the universe around him and calls the adventure Science." -- Edwin Powell Hubble

Science teacher Janis Bolbreck loves bringing the lessons of science to life and, with a little help from the scientists at Akzo Nobel, that's just what she's been doing.  The scientists have been teaching students about scientific principles and applications.  It's been a successful joint venture.

“Through team work, so much can be achieved," explains Bolbreck, who is pictured here wtih two of her students.  "Our students -- working with the scientists of Akzo Nobel -- proved this with their experiments, which won blue-ribbons at the Putnam County 4-H Fair."  

During the school year, students learned about the use of indicators, which are chemicals that change color when in the presence of another chemical.  Michael, with the help of Akzo Nobel’s Dr. Benedict and Ms. Antezzo, synthesized all-purpose glue from skim milk.  According to his teacher, Michael had a lot of fun testing his home-made glue against some of the top brand glues . 

Another team of scientists (Mike Engel/Marcus Boone/Ish Mahendroo) worked with Jacob , J.T. and Cody to test the function of diffusion.  They showed that different types of plastic food packaging experience some degree of diffusion. 

So, don’t leave your favorite peanut butter and jelly sandwich in a plastic baggie for too long!" says Bolbreck.

"Akzo Nobel has been a great corporate partner," says Jane Barr, director of corporate partnerships.  "We look forward to continuing this relationship, which has been so valuable for our students."