Apprenticeship in Action: Columbia Neuroscience

The human brain has never been more fun for our sixth and seventh graders at Renaissance School of Arts (RSA)! Every week, Columbia University volunteers introduce students to the scientific study of brain anatomy. Our RSA kids explore matters related to memory and emotions, brain disorders and injuries. Students are very active and are constantly at the edge of their seat every Monday afternoon, anticipating their next lesson.

Imagine their surprise when they find out they’ll be visiting Columbia University to explore its neuroscience lab in just a few weeks! They will engage in several experiments presented by our amazing Citizen Teachers Benjamin Silver, Martin Escamila, and Teaching Fellow Norman Martin.

Citizen Teachers Martin and Benjamin are working towards creating an exciting, knowledgeable and resourceful environment for their students. Benjamin looks forward to teaching every week, saying “I love their energy! They come in eager, committed and ready to learn.” Martin believes their success is due to the support from Citizen Schools staff and the RSA school community. Both teachers are looking forward to the upcoming WOW! season and cannot wait to see the excited faces of their students as they teach back neuroscience to family members, teachers and their community.