The West Michigan Science Festival is a weeklong program designed to K-12 students see the practical applications of science, math and technology at area businesses, health care providers, and colleges and universities. Organizers expect 6,000 participants in this year's festival, coming from Allegan, Kent, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo and Ottawa counties. More than 70 area organizations are sponsoring 125 events, running from April 17-30. Other sponsors of the West Michigan Science Festival include area businesses and educational institutions, including Amway Corporation, Calvin College, Delphi Automotive Systems, Design Plus, General Motors, Old Kent Bank, Johnson Controls Inc., Steelcase Inc., and Trendway. In addition, a NASA grant in support of the festival was received through the Michigan Space Grant Consortium.
Events range in size and scope.
One event will take high school students to a crime lab to observe collecting and analyzing evidence related to crimes involving drugs and firearms. Another event gives sixth-graders an opportunity to learn about propagating plants at area greenhouses. Elementary students will learn about architecture and bridges.