San Andreas, CA….Students who came to dinner at Calaveras River Academy on November 19 not only got to eat a special meal, they got to learn how their bodies were processing every single bite. “Dinner with a Scientist” brought together 16 local and regional scientists with 20 teachers and 61 students from Calaveras and Amador counties for a three-course meal during which the scientists got to share their enthusiasm and advice about careers in technology and science. The evening was hosted by the Calaveras County Office of Education (CCOE).

Professionals ranging from geologists to veterinarians, biologists, educators and engineers volunteered to spend an evening discussing their field of expertise. Students with a particular interest or talent in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) subjects were invited by their teachers to participate in this special event.

The evening began with a keynote address entitled “Your Totally Tubular Body” by Dr. Erin Naegle, biology professor at Columbia College. Dr. Naegle brought slides and videos that had the audience of 4th-12th graders both fascinated and shocked by images of the impressive pathways inside the human body.

Each team of students and their teacher rotated to different tables to meet a new scientist for the appetizer, entrée, and dessert portions of the meal. Dinner was served on tablecloths, with cloth napkins, recyclable cups, and reusable plates and utensils, so there was virtually no waste directed to a landfill. Volunteers provided table service to add an elegant touch and allow students and scientists to enjoy uninterrupted conversation.

“The goal of ‘Dinner with a Scientist’ is to inspire the next generation of scientists. We are hoping to nurture relationships and student interest in participating in the county Science Fair next March,” said Lauren Robinson, youth development programs coordinator for CCOE. “Plus, we wanted to create a fun, delicious, and memorable experience for everyone!”

The Calaveras County Science Fair takes place Saturday, March 12, 2016 at Calaveras River Academy. Interested students and teachers should contact Lauren Robinson at (209) 736-6094 or lrobinson@ccoe.k12.ca.us.