Sophomore Dayeon Lee’s passion for science has inspired her to start an initiative to benefit the next generation of local elementary school kids: the Algonquin Team of Modern Science, or the A.T.O.M.S Club.

The club, which Lee founded in October of 2021, helps children see and understand the science that surrounds them in everyday objects and phenomena. Club members visit elementary schools and educate the children with age appropriate science experiments such as examining invisible ink, measuring the pH value of cabbage and understanding the properties of turmeric. The young students gain exposure to everyday science in a way that is not always taught in school.

“A lot of schools don’t do fun, engaging, hands-on science experiments with younger kids,” Lee said. “I think this club is important; I feel in the early ages kids develop their interests and having an opportunity to do science experiments can help that.”

The club will visit Northborough and Southborough elementary schools, including Procter, Zeh, Finn and Woodward. It provides all the resources needed for the experiments, making it easy for the schools to participate. 

The students also have the opportunity to build connections with some of the highschool students,which is something Lee greatly appreciated. 

“The kids are all really cute so it is fun to spend time with them and get to build a relationship with them,” Lee said. “During one of the experiments one of the kids started eating the paper towels so that was really funny.” 

According to Lee one of the most rewarding parts is seeing the kids show attentiveness to the activities. 

“It is really fun to see the kids interested in what they’re doing,” Lee said. “I love when the kids get it and it clicks.”

The club has not only provided lessons for the elementary students, but it has also helped the high school club members, like sophomore Jane Olaniyan, develop life skills.

“The club takes a lot of collaboration, and you can develop team building skills,” Olaniyan said. 

As of now, the club members include Lee and some of her friends, but the club hopes to expand in the future. Lee plans to advertise the club, which is advised by science teacher Lorraine Zanini, in the upcoming year, and will likely post sign-up sheets for those interested in joining.  

“Hopefully if it’s successful I still want it to continue after I graduate,” Lee said. “I think that eventually the club can get new people to be president and co-founders.”

Lee believes the A.T.O.M.S club is a win-win endeavor for all involved.

“Using your knowledge to help other people is a great thing to do”; “I just want the kids to have opportunities for the future,” Lee said. “I hope it’s a program that is always there for elementary school children.”