Jan. 13, 2023 GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Families can learn about the water they drink and potential careers through hands-on activities during two “Water Pool-ooza” events.
The program, funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, is designed for fourth- through 12th-graders and their families, said Hillary Caren, a chemist with Grand Rapids’ water system.
Grand Rapids Community College, which runs a training program for jobs related to municipal water, public works, clean energy and river restoration projects, is a partner.
“Water Pool-ooza will provide students with hands-on activities, taught by water professionals, community partners and nonprofits, that are designed to expose them to a variety of water-related issues and careers,” she said.
The two Water Pool-ooza events are free:
- Feb. 25, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the city’s Lake Michigan Filtration Plant, 17350 Lake Michigan Drive.
Participants can follow the journey drinking water takes to reach their faucet. Water professionals will guide them through the treatment process with interactive activities to learn more about drinking water and about careers in the water industry.
- March 11, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at GRCC’s Tassell M-TEC, 622 Godfrey Ave. SW.
Participants can learn more about water sustainability, conservation and careers through activities led by nonprofit and community partners. City staff will lead demonstrations, and water professionals will share their roles within the water industry.
Caren said speakers at the two events will come from the state Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, the Kent County Drain Commission, the cities of Grand Rapids and Wyoming, and private industry.
“Water Pool-ooza will educate school students about the importance and beauty of the water around us and how it impacts our daily lives,” she said. “They will learn about diverse topics related to our water resources and begin to understand their role as water stewards and champions.”