GATES, N.C. — A Gates County High School senior is making a lasting impact on local elementary students through a hands-on science initiative designed to spark curiosity and build the next generation of thinkers.
Audrina Bowdoin, a Saunders Science Scholar, founded NextGen-Gates, a science enrichment program held at Buckland Elementary School. The program takes place in the school gymnasium and engages second-grade students in interactive, science-based activities aimed at making learning science both fun and meaningful.
Since launching in 2025, Bowdoin has dedicated time on Thursdays to work directly with students, leading sessions that align with what they are learning in the classroom. According to second-grade teacher Ms. Brittany Parker, Bowdoin’s consistency and preparation have made a noticeable difference.
“Miss Audrina Bowdoin has been working with our second-grade students since October,” Parker said. “She visits weekly and brings engaging, hands-on activities that connect directly to our science curriculum. From exploring life cycles to learning about turtles and adaptations, she ensures every lesson is interactive, organized, and exciting for the students.”
The mission of NextGen-Gates is to inspire curiosity and creativity in young learners while also providing leadership opportunities for high school students. Bowdoin has embraced that mission fully, designing sessions that blend education with creativity. Content has included a Halloween-themed slime experiment and interactive science bingo.
The program is supported by Buckland Elementary teachers Ms. Michelle Young and Ms. Brittany Parker, and made possible through the leadership of Principal Krystle Williams, whose unwavering support brought Bowdoin’s vision to life.
Bowdoin’s work has also been guided by mentors who have encouraged her growth as both a student and leader. Dr. Crystal Harden of the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center and Director of the Saunders Science Scholars program praised Bowdoin’s dedication.
“It has been such a joy working with Audrina over the past few years,” Harden said. “She has a genuine passion for science and an incredible ability to connect with others. Seeing her use science to engage young students and introduce them to the excitement of STEM at such an early age is truly inspiring.”
Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr. of Gates County Community Partnership echoed those sentiments, emphasizing Bowdoin’s drive and independence.
“Audrina did practically everything herself. This was her idea and her vision. Our role was mainly to help facilitate the location of the program,” Saunders said. “We are especially grateful to Mrs. Krystle Williams for her exceptional efforts guiding and supporting Audrina and providing her with the resources required for success.”
Through NextGen-Gates, Bowdoin is not only enriching science education for younger students but also demonstrating the power of student-led leadership. As she prepares to graduate, her work leaves behind a model of innovation, mentorship, and community collaboration that will continue to benefit Gates County’s youngest learners.