Christopher Chilelli

The first of its kind in Cabarrus County, the "eLAWS (environmental Land, Air and Water Studies) Pond Project" includes the design and construction of an aquatic research system that will be used to conduct meaningful science investigations, share methods and equipment with two partner middle schools and includes a community outreach component. Concerned about the impact of increased construction on local ponds and creeks, sixth through eighth-grade students will study these effects and share their findings with community land, water and air planning committees annually. In addition to the scientific benefits, students also gain public speaking and writing skills and enhance their scientific measurement and interpretation skills. Through this combination of student-driven research, controlled-testing systems and comparisons to local monitoring sites, Chilelli's students will be engaged in a meaningful learning experience as they seek ways to contribute solutions that lead to a healthier environment in their own neighborhoods. Chilelli resides in Concord.