Sonora, CA – Tuolumne County students took advantage of hands-on learning this summer to explore STEAM, which stands for science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics.
The Mad About Science event, hosted by the Tuolumne County Superintendent of Schools (TCSOS), took place the last week of July, with around 220 students participating.
“They built and coded robots, explored sound and created instruments, investigated watersheds and macroinvertebrates in both field and classroom settings, designed solar ovens, launched gliders and bottle rockets, and engaged in many other creative and challenging activities,” shared TCSOS officials.
Front Porch, the Sonora Area Foundation, and Columbia College sponsored the event, which was free to attend. This year’s Mad About Science teachers were Holly Miller, Dave Harris, Alaina VanBuskirk, Brittany Boucher, Laura Breaux, Jessica Brouns, Mary Mahlman, Alia Katz, Stefani Sheffield, Mark Lynch, and Sonja Kivley. It was organized by Kia Barrieau, Coordinator VII, Math & Special Projects. TCSOS officials noted, “Their enthusiasm, creativity, and dedication made this memorable week of learning possible.” They also thanked the families of participating students for their flexibility and support following the last-minute cancellation of the first day of the program on Monday (7/27/26) due to safety concerns related to the Dove Fire, which broke out the day before in Sonora, adding, “Their understanding and cooperation helped ensure a successful and safe week for everyone involved.”
