Making science fun through hands-on learning is what Whiz Kids is all about. It is an after school science club at OLQP open to 2nd - 4th graders. This year approximately 40 students are participating. The purpose of Whiz Kids is to teach the scientific method and lab safety through hands-on science experiments.

In the first 2 meetings this year, students built a working Cartesian diver model, set off film canister rockets, and explored science games and websites. We had over 6 parents helping at each of these meetings. Whiz Kids meet weekly through March and conclude with an end of the year show.

Last year’s amazing grand finale was organized by students Dr. de Groot and Dr. Chauvel. Dr. Chauvel's exploding soda bottles were really LOUD and Dr. de Groot's pinewood derby racing cars made physics fun! Parents were there as well sharing their interests and hobbies with the students. Tim Bartholome gave students the opportunity to view thru a high power telescope, while Mark Kuettel had fun with friction experiments and Eric Schmidt ran the potato gun demo.

This year, Jr High Science teacher, Mrs. Amy Seward joined Whiz Kids as a co-advisor. Her excitement for science is contagious! In addition to the faculty support, the parental support for the club is incredible - 95% have volunteered to come in and help the kids with the experiments. This support is the heart of Whiz Kids and many of the extracurricular programs at Our Lady Queen of Peace.