Chuck Harvuot launches the first Junior Hoosier Riverwatch at Jefferson Elementary School. Photos provided by Warsaw Community Schools.

Press Release

WINONA LAKE — Jefferson Elementary School staff recently announced the launch of the Jefferson STEM Jr. Hoosier Riverwatch program, an innovative initiative designed to enhance STEM education through hands-on environmental science.

Led by Chuck Harvuot, an esteemed Indiana master naturalist, the program aims to certify students as Riverwatch ambassadors. These trained students will undertake a critical role in mentoring their younger peers during stream site visits, where they will assess the health of local water bodies.

“I am proud of the hard work that Chuck Harvuot has put into this program to support a STEM student ambassador program and Junior Hoosier Riverwatch,” said Josh Wall, Jefferson Elementary principal. “This is going to help facilitate STEM educational experiences for younger students and provide leadership and mentorship opportunities for students at Jefferson.”

This initiative not only supports the learning of stream site health, but also establishes a core group of student STEM ambassadors at Jefferson Elementary. These ambassadors are tasked with fostering a love for science and the environment among their fellow students, enriching STEM education experiences throughout the school.

“It was really cool to have more time in the creek and have opportunities to catch more things like fish, water worms and crawdads,” said students Bridget and Leyla. “It was good to have this so we will have the chance to help teach other grades more about Cherry Creek.”

“I am so glad that fifth-graders were given a STEM leadership opportunity that is beneficial to our entire school,” said Makenzie Oldham. “These students will be great leaders for the younger grades at our upcoming Cherry Creek visits.”

Students work in a stream as part of the Junior Hoosier Riverwatch Program.