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Science Mentorship Instructor Perspectives

I am excited to be a part of such a dynamic program and thank Dr. Dorothy Welch and ISD #287 for having the foresight to help create it!

The Science Mentorship Program is unique in that the vast majority of students are only exposed to the Science Fair through a defined program in their school. SciMent is specifically in place to support students whose schools are not sponsoring the Science Fair.

My involvement originated in many ways from my own secondary school experience, where I had to travel 70 miles to find a teacher to sponsor me. It’s been a personal goal of mine to have a means in place to reach interested students and give them a chance to explore the wonder of science through the Science Fair.

My vision for the program is to:

  • Grow to meet the needs of more students;
  • Empower students to find individual growth, conduct themselves ethically, and aspire to high personal standards;
  • Gain increased recognition for student achievement in science; and
  • Instill an excitement for science in young people.

My ultimate goal in this program is to create a rich environment in which students are able to explore their interests and to grow. This program is not about the parents or teacher or even the competition; this program exists to serve the students and their individual needs.

I judge the success of each class not on the awards received, but the pride the students have for their own work. If students end the year having met their personal goals and having had fun, I count that year very successful.

Princesa VanBuren

Instructor, SciMent

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  • American Sign Language Register now, course starts Jan 25
  • EmpowerU: Resilience Skills Available now
  • Criminal Justice Internship Register now, course starts Jan 25

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Intermediate District 287

Intermediate District 287 is proud to provide Northern Star Online to Minnesota students on behalf of our consortium members:


Eden Prairie Public Schools | Edina Public Schools | Hopkins Online Academy
Minnetonka Public Schools | ISD 361 International Falls Public Schools | Northeast Metro 916
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