Science in Girls' Hands

It was all about the numbers at UW Fox Valley Saturday. For the third year in a row, aspiring scientists, web designers and mathematicians spent the day in the lab. But for this event, no boys are allowed.The third annual Girls in Engineering,Mathematics and Science fair is an opportunity for aspiring young girls to make their mark in an industry that will eventually need them.

The girls at the fair have their own reasons for being there.I like math a lot, says eighth grader Celia Rettle. "I'm in geometry this year.Because it's fun and my mom knows I like mixing stuff, says Emma Pauls, a sixth grader.The intention is fun but the implication is more, as courses focus on everything from inventions to bones to science.Research has shown that the students, as they're going into elementary, they're on an even balance with boys and then something happens when they get into middle school,explains Cathy Payner, Director of Continuing Education at UW Fox Valley.All of a sudden we see grades maybe falling a bit, they're not choosing the math, science, engineering courses.And engaging girls into those fields is the lasting impression not only for the industry but for them.It's one little thing we can do and it sure focuses on the positive for girls,adds Payner.