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Jefferson Elementary School is celebrating the launch of its 2025–26 STEM Ambassador program, where fifth- and sixth-grade student leaders are stepping up as environmental stewards and mentors for younger Spartans.
Last week, Jefferson’s STEM ambassadors participated in a special training at Cherry Creek with Indiana Master Naturalist Chuck Harvuot, according to a news release from Warsaw Community Schools. Students learned about water quality testing, stream health and pollution factors while exploring the creek and identifying wildlife. During the session, ambassadors discovered crayfish, largemouth bass, channel catfish and dragonflies.
The ambassadors were either nominated by their teachers or selected by Harvuot based on their participation and excitement during previous creek activities.
Harvuot said, “We’re using STEM ambassadors to not only increase their knowledge about water quality, but also enabling them to help teach younger students about water quality.”
Starting this week, Jefferson’s STEM ambassadors will guide second- and fourth-grade classes through hands-on creek activities, which will occur at least two more times this year, the release states. They will help with stations, assisting with waders, conduct chemical testing and modeling leadership skills.
Through this program, Jefferson Elementary students are not only building their scientific knowledge but also serving as role models to help ensure the health of local waterways while inspiring the next generation, according to the release.
