Come Explore Nuclear Science!
Nuclear Science Week is an international, broadly observed week-long celebration that focuses on all aspects of nuclear science. Events during this week will provide many learning opportunities about contributions, innovation and careers that can be found by exploring nuclear science. #nuclearsciweek @nuclearsciweek
SRS Community Reuse Organization and its affiliated Nuclear Workforce Initiative® are collaborating with local organizations to conduct activities designed to encourage and bring awareness of nuclear technology and the many careers available within nuclear technology and other high-tech industries.
DATES & ACTIVITIES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Education Days Information
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
October 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 2022
Ruth Patrick Science Education Center
Where:
Ruth Patrick Science Education Center – University of South Carolina Aiken
Who:
Middle and high school students
What:
Center of the Atom (An Investigation of Protons, Neutrons, Electrons, Elements, and Isotopes) - Students explore atomic structure using a series of hands-on activities which concludes with the discovery of the uses of an atom they create using the Interactive Nucleus display and the Living Periodic Table.
Probing the Periodic Table - This program demystifies the periodic table and makes learning about atoms fun! Students grasp the organization of the periodic table as they construct a Periodic Table of Foods. Then, they build atomic models and use them to find patterns in the structure and behavior of elements.
Changes Matter - Students explore physical and chemical properties of matter. They compare physical and chemical changes and experience reactivity through experiments and an “igniting” demonstration!
Meet the Elements - Students “meet the elements” in a fun music video; then work together to classify materials as elements, compounds and mixtures. They will build atomic models and discover why compounds are either ionic or covalent.
Modeling Atoms - Allows students to visualize the makeup of an atom in three-dimensional space by creating models of the subatomic particles that make up an atom. Students will learn concepts about atoms, molecules, and isotopes through drawing and constructing models of atoms.
Radiation All Around Us - Explores forms of radiation, natural and manmade, and how this invisible energy can be understood as both hazardous and helpful. Learn how nuclear workers at Savannah River Site protect themselves and the public from dangerous radiation.
Sunstruck (Planetarium) - Discover the wonders of our sun! Its incredible energy supports life on Earth, but solar storms can threaten our technology and way of life. Discover connections between sunspots, magnetic fields, aurora, and power failures. Travel to the distant future to discover our sun’s connection to the cosmic cycle of life and death.
How:
The Ruth Patrick Science Education Center will be accepting reservation requests for field trip programs for the 2022-2023 school year. Reservation request forms are available here. The programs fill up quickly, so please do not delay!
For more information contact Dr. Gary Senn at [email protected]
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
October 17, 18, 19, 2022
Aiken Technical College
Aiken Technical College, 2276 Jefferson Davis Hwy , Graniteville, SC 29829
Monday, October 17, 2022
Savannah River Site Tour
1:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Fifteen Aiken Technical College students and staff will take a bus tour of the Savannah River Site.
Tuesday, October 18, 2022
Savannah River Site History Presentation
11:30 am
Aiken Technical College (ATC), Community Room 1300 (Health Sciences Building)
A guest lecture from the Savannah River Site (SRS) Museum will discuss the historical and economic impact of the SRS to our region.
Event open to all ATC students and staff. Lunch will be served to the first 30 attendees.
Wednesday, October 19, 2022
Technical Education Open House
6:00 pm
Aiken Technical College (ATC) Room 1717 (Center for Energy & Advanced Manufacturing Building)
This is an open house information session to learn about ATC’s nuclear and technical education programs, tour facilities, and discover funding opportunities available, including the WORC scholarship.
Programs to be featured:
- Nuclear Fundamentals
- Radiation Protection Technology
- Industrial Maintenance
- HVAC
- Computerized Numerical Control (CNC)/Machine Tool Technology
This event is open to the general public and ATC students.
Click here to sign up to attend the Technical Education Open House.
Wednesday & Thursday
October 19 & 20, 2022
University of South Carolina Salkehatchie
Fall Career Fairs
Allendale, SC Campus: October 19, 2022 from 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
Walterboro, SC Campus: October 20, 2022 from 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
Promoting the Workforce Opportunities in Regional Careers (WORC) grant, Savannah River Site partnership, and engineering program to high school and USC Salkehatchie students on both campuses.
The career fair will showcase STEM opportunities available to students in their region. The goal is for students to learn about local industry jobs and internship opportunities available in the area.
Friday
October 28, 2022
Augusta University - Health Science Campus
9:00 am - 2:00 pm (Health Sciences Building Patio)
The Augusta University Society of Nuclear Scholar group will partner with the nuclear medicine technology program to set up an informational table about curriculum, career opportunities, scholarships and some demo GM meters.
Augusta Technical College
October 17 – 31, 2022
Video
Augusta Technical College to Georgia Tech
Dual enrolled student, Sydney Lee, shares his passion for nuclear.
Audience: High School Career, Technical, and Agriculture Education (CTAE) students.
Posted on Augusta Technical College - YouTube Station & Social Media
October 17, 2022
Site Tour
Savannah River Site (Partnership)
Attendees: Augusta Technical College Engineering Students & Instructors
October 21, 2022
Site Tour
Southern Nuclear Plant Vogtle (Partnership)
Attendees: Augusta Technical College Engineering Students & Instructors
October 28, 2022
Career Seminar & EXPO
9:30 am - 12:30 pm
Augusta Technical College (Jack B. Patrick Building 1000) - Augusta, Georgia
Partners: ADP, Bridgestone Tires, Club Car, Jefferson Energy, Merrick, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Southern Nuclear Plant Vogtle, Solvay, Savannah River National Laboratory, and more.
Click here for more information on the career seminar & expo.
Want more information? Contact Mylinthia Renee Kelly at [email protected]
Augusta Technical College offers scholarships up to $1,000 per semester. Click here for more information.
SRS Women in Nuclear Virtual Activity
The game is available throughout the year.
“Let’s Get Radioactive!” Jeopardy Game
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
October 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 2022
The SRS Women in Nuclear has a fantastic educational game.
“Let’s Get Radioactive!” Jeopardy Game
The game has 5 categories of questions and answers:
1. Radiation
2. Fact or Fiction
3. Medical Uses
4. Radiation in Home & Workplace
5. Avoiding Radiation
Each category has a point range from 100-500. Person/team selects the category and the point range they would like then answers the question. The person/team with the highest points at the completion of the round wins Nuclear Jeopardy.
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
October 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 2022
Savannah River National Laboratory (Teacher Science Kits)
Savannah River National Laboratory's Education Outreach Program has FREE Nuclear Science Week kits for teachers. Delivered directly to your school with all supplies!
All resources (materials & lesson plan) included and can be used at your discretion.
Click here for detailed information. Please submit the survey if would like your kit delivered.
Students learn about atoms as they create their own Bohr Models.
Ready to take advantage of this opportunity or need more information. Contact Meagan Kinard at [email protected] or 803-522-5001
2022 STEM Career Connections®
October 24 - November 11, 2022
(3-weeks to show video to students)
Where:
FREE Virtual Event (pre-recorded video)
Who:
GA/SC regional high school students considering a career pathway that involves science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills.
What:
Pre-recorded video of local industry professionals discussing career pathways and workforce topics. The goal is to help local students better understand the many career opportunities that exist right here in our community.
Industries featured in the video include Aiken Regional Medical Centers, Amazon, Dominion Energy, Generac, Goodwyn Mills Cawood, IntelliSystems, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions and Southern Nuclear Plant Vogtle.
How:
Video link and post event survey link given to educators. Information and details will be coordinated through educators.
CHANCE TO WIN A PRIZE: All students and educators who watch the video and complete the post-event survey will be entered for a chance to win an APPLE WATCH!
For more information and details, contact Kim Saxon at [email protected]
Event is hosted by SRS Community Reuse Organization
Many thanks to our sponsors.
GOLD:
Bechtel | Dominion Energy | Southern Nuclear | SRS Community Reuse Organization | Nuclear Workforce Initiative®
SILVER:
Aiken Technical College | Augusta Technical College | Applied Research Center | Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, LLC
BRONZE:
Savannah River Mission Completion
IN-KIND:
Aiken Regional Medical Centers | Amazon | Generac | Goodwyn Mills Cawood| IntelliSystems
Site Visit Days
Wednesday
October 5, 2022
9:00 am - 11:00 am (TEAMS Virtual Meeting)
Savannah River National Laboratory - Behind the Science (Virtual Tour)
Explore the world of opportunity at Savannah River National Laboratory during a unique virtual tour designed for CSRA students in grades 6-12!
The Savannah River National Laboratory is giving CSRA students the opportunity to look Behind the Science and learn about the many opportunities at the lab. As one of only 17 national laboratories in the nation, SRNL supports critical Department of Energy missions, including developing methods and tools for environmental clean-up and supporting national and global security initiatives.
During this unique virtual tour, students will meet a diverse group of lab ambassadors, who will explain the work they do and their STEM career paths. Students will be able to look into their work and interact with these ambassadors during live question and answer sessions.
We hope this program will help students see there is something for everyone at a national laboratory. From engineers and scientists to accountants and communicators, everyone plays a crucial role in helping the lab achieve its missions. We want to expose students to the diversity of our employee population to help them see the world of opportunity available right in our own community!
The tour will be held via Microsoft Teams from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2022. For more information or to register for this program, contact SRNL Community and Education Outreach Coordinator Meagan Kinard at [email protected] or (803)522-5001.
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
October 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 2022
Southern Nuclear Plant Vogtle
Where:
Southern Nuclear Plant Vogtle – Waynesboro, GA
Who:
Vogtle Energy Education Center Staff
What:
The Vogtle Energy Education Center will be conducting limited site visits at Plant Vogtle which will include nuclear 101 education, driving tours of the site, and hands-on activities relating to power production and nuclear energy.
How: For more information, contact Joel Leopard ([email protected]) or Mike McCracken ([email protected])
Savannah River Site (SRS) Virtual Field Trip Available Throughout the Year
In the Beam, Science in the Fast Lane
Created for Virtual Reality, take a video journey with us as we follow a sample through a mass spectrometer. The recreation of the instrument in the video was produced from a laser mapping inside a mass spec used in Savannah River National Laboratory. R&D Engineering, imaging robotics engineers created the experience.
Attention Educators: To provide the virtual experience of the atomic world inside mass spectrometers to students, teachers may complete a short form at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/INTHEBEAM to receive a free video and educator’s guide.
"Feathers in the Forest" Come On! Get on the Bus!
Joining our team as ecologists, you will assess two different forests to determine which forest meets the habitat requirements of the endangered Red-cockaded Woodpecker (RCW).
Experience up-close SRS conservation efforts by the US Forest Service as they work to preserve the RCW’s home.
Roundtrip 20 minutes!
Attention Educators: For keys to the bus, complete the short form at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RCWvirtualfieldtrip
"Wet Wonders" Come On! Get on the Bus!
Your journey takes you to on a "Wet Wonders" adventure at SRS to study biotic factors that determine the health of a pond.
Roundtrip 14 minutes!
Attention Educators: For keys to the bus, complete the short form at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VirtualTripWetWondersSRS
Upon submission, within 1-3 business days, you will receive a link to the video, and a Student Activity Sheet with Answer Key.
“A Trip Down Under”
Discover the science of soil and the mysteries beneath our feet as students take A Trip Down Under at the Savannah River Site.
Investigate soil, layer by layer, in the Sandhills Region of the Carolinas and Georgia, learn of weathering and the role it plays in soil creation, understand the effects of soil quality on the characteristics of an ecosystem, take a look at how the earth’s materials, as natural resources, are used for common products in society and learn of an archeological find at the Savannah River Site that remembers history through an artist known as "Dave".
Roundtrip 20 minutes!
This free resource (includes Student Activity Guide and Teacher Answer Key) may be requested at this link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/tripdownunder
October 17 & November 10, 2022
(Invitation Only)
Savannah River Site (SRS) Site Tours
Invitation only SRS tour for Aiken Technical College , Augusta Technical College and Augusta University with a focus on technical critical skills positions.
Annual Edward Teller Lecture & Banquet
CNTA Annual Edward Teller Lecture & Banquet
Tuesday, November 1, 2022
Where:
The 31st Annual Edward Teller Lecture will be at the Amentum Theater for Performing Arts with a reception following at Newberry Hall located in Aiken, SC.
6:30 pm (Lecture) Amentum Theater for Performing Arts,126 Newberry Street SW Aiken SC, 29801
7:30 pm (Reception) Newberry Hall,117 Newberry Street SW, Aiken, SC 29801
What:
Time for members of the public to come learn more about the current advances in nuclear technology as well as see pioneering scientists awarded for their efforts in the industry. This event will also recognize CNTA’s award winners.
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Kathryn Huff – Assistant Secretary for the Office of Nuclear Energy
How:
Tickets are required. $50 per person (limited seating)
Tickets NOW AVAILABLE! Get yours before we sell out! Tickets on sale until October 21, 2022
Click here to purchase tickets.
For more information contact CNTA at [email protected].
Event hosted by Citizens for Nuclear Technology Awareness (CNTA)
Other Activities
Science Education Enrichment Day STEM Festival
Saturday, October 1, 2022
10:00 am - 3:00 pm
University of South Carolina Aiken (Ruth Patrick Science Education Center)
Admission Cost: FREE
Family-themed festival celebrating science, technology, engineering and math.
The Ruth Patrick Science Education Center at the University of South Carolina Aiken (USC Aiken) will host the 37th annual SEED STEM Festival, October 1, 2022 on the university campus, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.
Imagine getting up close with honeybees, petting an alligator, learning how to make a rain garden, investigating a carnivorous plant, driving a championship robot, or virtually traveling through outer space. Guests will be able to do just that at SEED.
The event will celebrate innovations in the areas of STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics). Student groups, regional corporations, museums, professional organizations, government agencies, educators, and national labs will join forces to create and present engaging hands-on activities for guests of all ages.
We plan this event each year to give young learners up close and personal interaction with real-world scientists, engineers, and other technical professionals. The goal is to increase awareness of the role STEM plays in society and that it can also be fun. We recognize that as a society we must continue to excite and engage families about STEM fields.
Highlights include:
- More than 50 hands-on exhibits and activities.
- Exhibits from the Aiken County EMS, American Nuclear Society, Savannah River National Laboratory, SC DNR, USC Aiken, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, Southern Nuclear, and more.
- Demonstrations of technologies and intriguing science including robotics, nuclear power, flight, biology, chemistry, neuroscience, biodiversity, and more.
Every year, this event is presented by the Ruth Patrick Science Education Center at USC Aiken working closely with the Aiken County Public School District.
Atomic City Festival
Friday & Saturday, October 7 & 8, 2022
6pm - 9pm (Friday) & 10am -10pm (Saturday)
200 N. Main Street, New Ellenton, SC 29809
Family Fun Event!
• 110-ft Fun Slide, Rock Climbing Wall, and Bungee Trampoline
• Petting Zoo with Pony Rides
• Food Trucks
• Axe Throwing
• New Ellenton History Booth
• Car Show
• Bingo
• Live Band
• Raffles
• Craft Vendors
• Fireworks
• And much more
CNTA Oyster Roast & Low Country Boil
Saturday, October 15, 2022
6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Palmetto Golf Club - 275 Berrie Rd SW, Aiken, SC 29801
Live music by Keith Gregory, raffles and more.
Tickets required. $50 per person
Tickets NOW AVAILABLE! Get yours before we sell out! Tickets on sale until October 1, 2022 (or until we sell out)
Click here to purchase tickets.
For more information contact CNTA at [email protected]
This event is hosted by Citizens for Nuclear Technology Awareness Young Professionals Committee.
Savannah River Site Museum Tours
SRSM will be open Monday - Saturday during NSW
October 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 2022
10 am - 5 pm
224 Laurens Street SW
Aiken SC, 29801
Located in downtown Aiken, SC, SRS Museum visitors can experience life at the Savannah River Site and learn more about South Carolina’s role in winning the Cold War.
The Savannah River Site Museum is located at 224 Laurens St SW, Aiken, SC 29801 and is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm.
For more information contact the SRS Museum at 803-648-1437 or email the museum at [email protected]
CNTA Up & Atom Breakfast
Thursday, October 20, 2022
7:30 am
Newberry Hall - 117 Newberry Street SW, Aiken, SC 29801
CNTA Up & Atom Breakfast - A focus on the apprenticeship program! Join us for this special Nuclear Science Week event and learn about the partnerships between the SC technical school system and SRS.
Cost: $20.00 - RSVP Required! RSVP By October 14th
RSVP to [email protected] and pay at the door, or RSVP & pay in advance at: https://cntaware.org/event/apprenticeship-up-atom/
For more information contact CNTA at [email protected]
Hosted by Citizens for Nuclear Technology Awareness.
CNTA Nuclear Blitz & Classroom Teach-Ins
October 2022 (Available Throughout the Year)
Hosted by Citizens for Nuclear Technology Awareness (CNTA).
Nuclear Blitz: CNTA and the local section of the American Nuclear Society (ANS-SR) jointly conduct a weeklong “blitz” into area high schools that is held in conjunction with Nuclear Science Week. Each year more than 1200 students are impacted! The classroom lesson includes an overview of nuclear fundamentals, applications and career opportunities partnered with hands-on demonstrations.
Classroom Teach-Ins: Need a subject matter expert to help in your classroom? CNTA has speakers available that can come to your classroom to discuss atomic and nuclear fundamentals, nuclear energy, nuclear technologies and applications, careers in nuclear, and a wide range of other topics. We also conduct hands-on demonstrations and activities.
If you are interested in having members from CNTA come to your classroom, please contact the office at [email protected]
CNTA Aiken Standard/North Augusta Star NSW Insert
Nuclear Science Week is significant to the Savannah River Site Community Reuse Organization region. This community is at the forefront of important scientific advances, and Nuclear Science Week provides the perfect opportunity to celebrate and learn.
The Citizens for Nuclear Technology Awareness will coordinate a special newspaper insert for the Aiken Standard (available on October 16, 2022) and North Augusta Star (available on October 19, 2022) that will highlight regional innovations.
CNTA High School Essay Contest
Win up to $1,000
The 2023 Citizens for Nuclear Technology Awareness (CNTA) High School Essay Contest is for area high schooler juniors and seniors. Have a chance to win up to $1,000.
Eligibility:
Must be a high school junior or senior enrolled at a school in one of these counties (including homeschool): Aiken (SC), Allendale (SC), Barnwell (SC), Burke (GA), Columbia (GA), or Richmond (GA).
Each contestant must prepare his or her own essay about one of the listed topics.
Contestants must submit one (1) copy of their essay in its final form to the Contest Director by the due date of February 28, 2023. Each essay must be accompanied by an Official Student Entry Form. No faxed copies will be accepted, please email them.
Contest Criteria:
Submit a 1,000-1,500 word essay on one of three topics.
The 2023 topics are:
* There are numerous applications of nuclear technology in the medical industry, such as radioisotopes for medical diagnostics or therapies. Some of these applications have been around for many years, and other innovations are being developed. Discuss at least two (2) uses of nuclear technology in medicine and their impact on the medical industry.
* There are many differences between the generation of greenhouse gases from various energy sources, such as wind, solar, and fossil fuels compared to nuclear energy. Discuss the differences in greenhouse gas generation between these sources and nuclear energy. Consider the “cradle-to-grave” cycle of each energy source.
* Nuclear technology is being used in emerging technologies, such as supporting habitation in space, and producing energy via small-modular reactors and micro-reactors. Discuss the use of nuclear technology in emerging technologies and the potential impacts of these uses on society.
The effort involves researching a topic and preparing an essay on the subject. CNTA has books and other reference materials that may be of help to student applicants. The competition is judged by volunteer members of CNTA.
Deadline: February 28, 2023.
CNTA Educator Grant Program
Want up to $500 for STEM Projects and Supplies?
The CNTA Educator Grant Program is seeking applications for area grades Pre-K to 12 educators in all subjects.
The Citizens for Nuclear Technology Awareness is a nonprofit organization that advocates for all aspects of nuclear technologies. Our mission is to educate the public by providing objective information on the value of nuclear technology with respect to our health, economy, environment and national security.
We live in a radioactive world! We use nuclear science and technology to power our homes, diagnose and treat serious health issues, make our food supplies safe and high yielding, and make our world better. However, some members of the public lack understanding of the concepts of radiation and nuclear materials, how we can deal with them safely, and how important they are to our lives.
CNTA developed the Educator Grant Program as an alternative to its classroom and field trip experiences for teachers. The program is an opportunity to support local teachers in their classrooms and give them the resources to develop projects or enhance their student’s experience with science and technology.
The grants can be used to fund a project in any area of science or technology; however, proposals that promote an increased understanding of atomic and nuclear fundamentals, radiation and nuclear materials safety, and applications of nuclear technology will be given extra consideration
Eligibility:
0pen to educators grades Pre K-12 in the South Carolina counties of Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Edgefield, and Orangeburg; and in the Georgia counties of Columbia, Richmond, and Burke are invited to submit proposals. Teachers who are members of CNTA are also eligible to apply regardless of school location.
Application MUST be received by CNTA by close of business on JANUARY 31, 2023!
Educator Activities Throughout the Year
Savannah River Site Education Outreach Programs
The United States Department of Energy Savannah River Operations Office (DOE-SR) provides a variety of science and literacy outreach programs at the Savannah River Site (SRS) by funding and coordinating the efforts of several organizations. The primary goals of these outreach programs are to enhance interest in science, mathematics, engineering and technology and to support improvements in education in the Central Savannah River Area by using the unique resources available at the Site. We believe business, industry, government and the education community must work together as partners to improve the educational opportunities for all students in our region.
In partnership with education institutions, the Savannah River Site offers:
• Hands-on programs for precollege students and teachers.
• Unique research opportunities for post-secondary students and faculty at the Savannah River Site.
• Various workshops, tours, lectures and demonstrations that promote science, mathematics, engineering and technology.
To learn more about the many programs offered click here.
Ruth Patrick Science Education Center
The Ruth Patrick Science Education Center is a cooperative effort between the University of South Carolina Aiken, business, industry, and schools in the Central Savannah River Area. Its programs challenge the present and inspire the future to effect systemic change in science and mathematics education. Its hands-on approach to teaching is designed to help people experience the beauty, the order, and the power of science and mathematics, as well as the interest and fun of discovery.
Programs are available for students, teachers and the community. To learn more click here.
Teach-Ins
Need a subject matter expert to help in your classroom? The Citizens for Nuclear Technology Awareness (CNTA) has speakers available that can come to your classroom to discuss atomic and nuclear fundamentals, nuclear energy, nuclear technologies and applications, careers in nuclear, and a wide range of other topics. We also conduct hands-on demonstrations and activities.
Available Topics Include:
• How Radiation is Measured and How Exposure is Safely Controlled
• The Applications Of Radiation
• Nuclear Fundamentals
• Nuclear Technology Applications
• Regional Nuclear Technology Uses
• Career Opportunities in Nuclear
If you are interested in having members from CNTA come to your classroom to teach, please contact the office at [email protected].
Plant Vogtle Energy Education Center
Plant Vogtle [southernnuclear.com] is located in Burke Co. Georgia. Dive into the fascinating world of electricity and energy at the Vogtle Energy Education Center. Expand your students’ minds with “in-class field trips” facilitated by Southern Nuclear Energy Education Center staff who bring an informative and educational approach to learning about nuclear energy and power production.
If you would like to schedule a site tour or informative presentation for your school group, civic group or other groups, please contact the Vogtle Energy Education Center staff at [email protected] or you can take a virtual tour
Classroom Lesson Plans
Nuclear Science Week endeavors to provide a rich assortment of curriculum assistance.
Energy Solutions Foundation has provided a number of these lesson plans, which will provide you with step-by-step ways to teach the fundamentals of nuclear science.
Click here on activities that are ready to use in your classroom.
Lesson plans include:
• NAYGN’s Global Fuel Cycle Game
• Navigating Nuclear: Energizing Our World
• Detecting Radiation in Our Radioactive World
• The Atomic Nucleus
• The Nuclear Wall Chart
• Tearing Through a Half-Life
• Nuclear Popcorn
• Alphas, Betas, Gammas, Oh My!
• Radioactive Decay
• Radioactive Decay Chains
• Safe and Reliable Nuclear Energy
• The Environment and the Generation of Electricity
• Nuclear Clean Air Facts
• The Fission Game
• Radioactive Waste Disposal
• How Much Radiation
• Estimate Your Personal Annual Radiation Dose
• Calculate Your Radiation Dose
• Mock Senate
• Perception of Risk
Nuclear Science Resources
Click here to find websites and resources for more information and activities centered on nuclear science.
Community Activities Throughout the Year
Savannah River Ecology Laboratory
The Savannah River Ecology Laboratory (SREL), a research unit of the University of Georgia, pursues basic and applied research at multiple levels of ecological organization, from atoms to ecosystems.
The SREL Outreach Program reaches more than 68,000 people annually who live in communities surrounding the Savannah River Site (SRS). These programs enhance an individual’s understanding of environmental issues affecting the SRS, and they increase general ecological awareness by featuring programs on the local ecology and associated research.
The following are outreach programs available. Click on each program for details.
• Ecologist for a Day
• EcoTalks
• Exhibits
Click here to complete an outreach program request form.
Click here for educational materials.
Savannah River Site Museum
Located in downtown Aiken, SRS Museum visitors can experience life at the Savannah River Site and learn more about South Carolina’s role in winning the Cold War.
The Savannah River Site Museum is located at 224 Laurens St SW, Aiken, SC 29801 and is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm.
For more information contact the SRS Museum at 803-648-1437 or email the museum at [email protected]
Savannah River Site Public Tour Program
In 2022, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, LLC will once again offer a limited number of Savannah River Site (SRS) tours for the general public.
Sixteen site driving tours of SRS are being offered to the public in 2022, providing openings for approximately 680 people to visit the site. All tours begin at 12:30 PM at the SRS Badge Office, located off SRS Road 1. Guests will be given an overview presentation, safety briefing and driving tour of the site. The public tour includes a visit to the University of Georgia's Savannah River Ecology Laboratory. Visitors will get an overview of the ecology lab's history and mission, and get an up close view of animals that are native to the Savannah River Site. Historic tours include a tour of the SRS Curation Facility and also stops at the Dunbarton town site and C Reactor.
Site tours provide an opportunity for those interested in SRS to better understand the Department of Energy’s facilities and workers that changed the face of Aiken, Barnwell and Allendale Counties, nearby cities and helped win the Cold War. Guests will also learn about facilities supporting future missions of the Savannah River Site.
All tours are free of charge and each will accommodate 34 participants. Tour participants must be 18 years of age or older and must be U.S. Citizens. Proper identification is required at check-in the day of the tour. Click here to view a list of acceptable IDs.
Registration for each tour will close two weeks before the date of the tour so please be sure to register early. If you are coming as a group, each individual in the group will need to self-register, as well.
Seats are limited and participants may reserve only one tour date per year. Seats are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Larger groups must be registered by calling 803.952.8994. A waiting list is maintained and you will be notified by email should a seat become available. If no internet access is available, individuals may call 803.952.8994 for assistance.
Click here for more details .
Local Scholarship & Training Opportunities
Scholarship and Training Opportunities
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) skills are important building blocks that help students expand their education and career opportunities. Creative resources are available to students, teachers and parents to promote STEM skill development and understand nuclear technology through activities that encourage exploration and involvement.
Workforce Opportunities in Regional Careers (WORC) scholarships are available at five area educational institutes with a focus on programs that enable students to develop critical skills needed for careers supporting Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Environmental Management (EM) and National Nuclear Security Administration (NSSA) nuclear missions.
Five area educational partners offering training and scholarships:
• Aiken Technical College
• Augusta Technical College
• Augusta University
• Claflin University
• University of South Carolina Aiken
• University of South Carolina Salkehatchie
Click here to learn more about the local high-tech training opportunities and scholarships available.
For more information about
Nuclear Science Week,
contact Mindy Mets, Director of Regional Workforce Programs at [email protected] or Kim Saxon, Assistant Coordinator, at [email protected]