Human Interest
Science Vortex Dispatches Reps to Jaslo, Poland for Groundbreaking Initiatives
The Science Vortex of Verde Valley is embarking on an international collaboration with the Sedona Sister Cities Association (SSCA). This summer, Laurie Altringer, the Science Vortex president, along with her children Kellan, an eighth-grader, and Mica, a Mingus Union High School junior, will travel to Jaslo, Poland. They will engage in a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) leadership program, partnering with the Science Generator museum.
According to a press release from SSCA, “While the Science Vortex brings a strong history of hands-on educational programming, the GEN Science offers advanced infrastructure and resources, making the collaboration a powerful and promising match.”
The Chief Science Officer (CSO) program, developed by the Tempe-based SciTech Institute, is designed for students in grades 6 through 12. Elected by their peers, these students serve as STEM leaders in their communities. They work alongside professionals to organize events like star parties and create monthly “Kids’ Night Out” activities. As stated on the SciTech website, the program currently encompasses participants from 15 states and several countries, including Colombia, Mexico, Kenya, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates.
“Through the program, I met someone who majored in biomedical engineering at ASU. That inspired me,” Mica Altringer shared. “I hope to pursue a career in biomedical engineering.”
The CSO program is particularly beneficial for students in rural areas, according to Laurie Altringer. “It exposes them to opportunities in urban Phoenix and beyond, broadening their perspectives on technology and career options.”
Don Groves, a board member of SSCA, facilitated this partnership. Both organizations also host science festivals—Jaslo in the fall and Verde Valley in February. Altringer mentioned plans to involve students from both regions in each other’s festivals through virtual and coordinated activities.
Science Vortex is also collaborating with Camp Verde Middle School to broaden the reach of the CSO program.
Students in grades six through twelve within Verde Valley are encouraged to apply for the CSO program. Interested individuals can reach out via email at info@sciencevortex.org for additional details.
