Session 1: Molecule Interactions

Mandy Eckhardt, a Sulphur Springs ISD alumnus and current graduate student at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, kicked off our first GROW session by sharing her passion for science. Girls explored how molecules can change our senses through an experiment with "miracle fruit"—a berry that makes sour foods taste sweet! After learning about the science behind miraculin, the active molecule in the fruit, students used tablets to coat their tongues and tested a variety of foods to observe changes in taste perception. They discovered how acids like lemon juice can activate sweet receptors on the tongue in surprising ways.

Session 2: Lighting Up STEM

Jodi Andoe, STEM and Robotics Coordinator at Sulphur Springs High School, led our second GROW session focused on the exciting world of electricity. Girls learned how electrical circuits work and how they power everyday technology. Using copper tape, LEDs, and coin cell batteries, students built their own working light-up cards. As they designed and tested their circuits, they gained a better understanding of how energy flows through a closed loop to light up the LEDs. This hands-on activity combined creativity with science, helping students see how STEM can be both fun and practical. 

Session 3: Chemistry with Critters

Mandy Eckhardt returned to lead our third GROW session, diving into the colorful world of chemistry. Girls discovered how insects can be used in science by making natural paint from dried cochineal bugs. They learned that carminic acid, produced by the cochineal insect as a defense mechanism, can be harvested to create a vibrant red dye. Students crushed the dried insects into powder, mixed it with water, and then experimented with acids and bases—like lemon juice and soda ash—to change the color of their paint. They used their custom mixtures to create original artwork on fabric, blending creativity with hands-on science exploration.

Session 4: Mission: Astro Rescue

The final session for GROW 2025 was presented by Jodi Andoe, STEM and Robotics Coordinator at Sulphur Springs High School. Girls were introduced to the VEX GO system and learned how engineers use technology to solve real-world challenges—especially in space! Working in teams, they built robotic machines designed to complete a rescue mission and bring an astronaut to safety. This hands-on session encouraged teamwork, creativity, and critical thinking as students explored the exciting world of robotics.