BOO! Alexandria Kids Bring Their Inventions to Spooky Mad Science Expo

Alexandria, VA – Ever wonder what happens to your blood in the vacuum of outer space? Have you tried manufacturing polymers in your spare time? And if you’ve ever wondered how to make elephant toothpaste, then the place to be on Saturday, Oct. 15, was the Spooky Mad Science Expo at the Watergate Landmark! The third annual event highlighted the scientific work of Alexandria students and was attended by hundreds.

“This is a wonderful event that brings people together that are working hard to teach math and science to the children,” said Alexandria Mayor Justin Wilson.

More than 100 of Alexandria’s future scientists, astronauts, mathematicians, and engineers proudly displayed their spookiest Halloween costumes in the spirit of this year’s expo. The event was also attended by Vice Mayor Elizabeth Bennett-Parker, School Board Member Megan Alderton, representatives of the Alexandria Sheriff, and Rene Paschal, the principal of Samuel Tucker Elementary School.

Additionally, the organizations conducting experiments included the National Science Foundation, the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, the American Chemical Society, and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Science is a year-round pursuit for Zohreh Khoshnamak who started the science club at the Watergate. They even have their own robotics team!

“It all started with my son and his friends getting together after school and turned into a science club that meets twice a month,” Khoshnamak said. “This year’s event is a great opportunity for everyone in the community to help teach the kids about different areas of science and technology. We have everyone from doctors to scientists. People see the Mayor and just keep coming. It’s a great inspiration to other neighborhoods too!”

Bennett-Parker went from booth to booth and talked with students about their projects.

“It’s really wonderful to see so many kids learning about science,” she said. “I’m grateful to Zohreh for organizing such a great event.”

To find out more about the club, and to learn about teaching kids science, technology, engineering, art, and math you can contact Zohreh Khoshnamak at [email protected].