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Elk County high school students offered chance to learn more about archaeology |
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Wednesday, 26 March 2008 |
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By Greg Reedy
High School students in Elk County have the opportunity to learn more about archeology this summer.
The Allegheny National Forest is sponsoring an archaeological field school for students this summer entitled the Clarion River Archaeological Study Program and Field School. The school will be through a partnership with Clarion University and is funded by Elk County through a Secure Rural School Funds Act Title III Grant which the ANF applied for. Students must be 16 years old by June 1 to eligible. Graduating seniors are eligible.
Kathy Mohney of the Allegheny National Forest said she is excited to be a part of this with the ANF.
“I think it’s a great program,” Mohney said.
“I know myself, the first time I did a program like this, it was exciting.”
Erin Knolles is the VISTA volunteer for the Clarion River Municipal Partnership and Millstone Township. She serves as the liaison for this project between the ANF, Clarion University, Millstone Township and the high schools.
The overall program takes place from June 15 to July 2. Knolles said the first week of the program will be spent at Clarion from June 15-20.
“It will basically be day courses,” Knolles said. “They go for the day with professors.”
During the time there, students can learn about astronomy, soils and biology. Students during the first week will stay on campus with adult supervision and will be taught by Clarion professors.
After a couple days off, students return for the second part of the field school at the field camp in the ANF. Clarion offers a five-week program for college students and the high school students will join them in the third week, being able to dig along aside and learn. Students will also have the opportunity to learn camping skills from members of the Student Conservation Association and can work daily with members of the Student Conservation Association while working on a daily basis along an excavation. The supervisor of the camp will be Dr. Susan Prezzano, Professor of Anthropology.
“They’ll learn how to do trial work, map profiles and be able to do field notes and journal entries,” Knolles said. “We also plan for them to go with the archaeological crew to do mapping of an historic site.”
Knolles said there will be a Parents Day on the second weekend so family members can see students in action at the school.
Overall, Knolles said from past experience the students have enjoyed their time.
“They really like the work and finding flakes which come off when arrowheads are formed,” Knolles said.
Students selected may be eligible for college credit.
Student applications are currently in the high schools of Elk County. Those interested must fill out the application and write an up to 500-word essay about their interest in local history and why they should be accepted into the program, a signature from a parent or guardian with permission and mail the completed application by April 11 to a return address listed on the application |
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Last Updated ( Friday, 28 March 2008 )
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