Wilbraham Middle School

Each year, 100+ Wilbraham Middle School students will transform into citizen scientists as part of a weather and climate unit through participation in GLOBE. Following GLOBE protocols, students collect environmental data, including surface and air temperatures, sky conditions, barometric pressure, precipitation, relative humidity, and wind. Using the GLOBE Observer mobile app, students upload their data for validation by scientists. Once validated, students analyze their contributions alongside global datasets from other citizen scientists, observing patterns in weather, climate, and climate change. They reflect on their findings to propose actionable, local solutions to mitigate climate change impacts. The project culminates in sharing their work with the local community, extending the impact beyond the classroom to the global GLOBE network and future participants who will build on this foundation annually. Grant funding from YLACES will enable the purchase of essential research tools, including 12 infrared thermometers, 12 multifunctional anemometers, and 2 digital rain gauges, as well as support a practical training session to ensure effective data collection and analysis