Lafayette and Rawcliffe 4-H Science and Engineering Learning Center

Who We Are

4-H youth enjoying a painting activity

The Lafayette and Rawcliffe 4-H Science and Engineering Center partners with K–12 schools (public, private, and home), colleges, and adult learners to explore STEAM-related interests. Our programming is rooted in positive youth development (PYD), providing inclusive, fun, and creative experiences.

We offer a variety of public events, including our annual open house, where visitors can explore the center and engage with hands-on activities. In addition, we provide Science Center Programs for grades K–12, including:

These programs can be tailored to support classroom learning, group visits, or individual exploration, making science accessible and exciting for all ages.

What We Can Provide

Youth and adults conducting an experiment using a table fan.
Wind Power Activity

Beyond student programs, the Science Center can support schools, clubs, and educators with:

  • Hands-on STEAM workshops tailored to your students’ interests
  • Connection with UMaine campus departments and researchers to explore career aspirations
  • 4-H STEM Toolkits for classroom or club use
  • Workforce development and mentoring for UMaine students (through SEA BEaRS and STEM Ambassadors), including leading programs and curriculum development
  • Professional development for educators, including using toolkits or learning about topics like aquaculture and PYD
  • Classroom space with a 32-seat capacity for your program

Where We Are

The center is near the University of Maine campus in Orono at 491 College Ave, Orono, Maine (Google Maps).

Find us on Facebook: Lafayette and Rawcliffe 4-H Science and Engineering Learning Center

Contact Us/Staff

Meg Begley-Irish, 4-H Science Professional and 4-H Science Center Program Coordinator
Email: megan.begley@maine.edu

Jessy Brainerd, Administrative Specialist, State 4-H Office
Email: jessica.brainerd@maine.edu

Vanessa Klein, Assistant Extension Professor, 4-H STEM Specialist, Assistant Professor of Education
Email: vanessa.klein@maine.edu

Greg Kranich, 4-H Science Professional
Email: gregory.kranich@maine.edu

Alice Philbrick, Community Education Assistant
Email: alice.philbrick@maine.edu

Scarlett Tudor, Education and Outreach Coordinator, Cooperative Extension and Aquaculture Research Institute
Email: mary.tudor@maine.edu

Fall 2025 Open House Welcomed Visitors on October 11!

Attendees enjoyed a fun, fall-inspired event filled with discovery, creativity, and a sense of community spirit. Guests had the chance to explore the space, meet Extension staff, and learn more about the many opportunities available through 4-H. Hands-on activity stations encouraged curiosity and engagement for all ages.

Participants experimented like scientists, made Seaweed Squishies, explored marine life at the Touch Tank, and created colorful works of art with Tissue Paper Painting. 4-H Toolkit demonstrations offered a closer look at the types of projects and skills youth can develop through 4-H, while staff shared information on how to get involved in local programs.

No registration was required to join in the fun. The open house took place at 491 College Avenue in Orono, Maine, welcoming visitors from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Organism Dissection

Grade: K – 12

Dissections are unique experiences that provide a deeper understanding of the natural world through hands-on exploration. Students will learn why the species is important to the ecosystem, and learn about unique external and internal anatomy and how it compares to us.

Organisms to choose from: Squid, worm, fish, grasshopper, flower, owl pellet, but also open to other suggestions!

 

Maine Wildlife

students examining animal pelts

Grade: K – 12

This program introduces students to Maine wildlife through the exploration of pelts, skulls, scat, and tracks. Students will get a chance to test out their investigation skills as they try to identify different animals found in the woods. Additional activities include determining diet of animals through teeth comparisons and making animal tracks using life size molds.

What is a Fish Biologist?

plastic fish and bugs for learning about fish biologistsGrade: K – 12

In this program, students will learn what a fishery scientist does (spoiler alert: they do not just study fish!) and the number of job opportunities available globally. They then get placed in the role of a fishery biologist where they have to identify fish from a newly discovered Maine lake. Students will conduct a stomach content analysis (spoiler alert: artificial stomach with slime and plastic representations) to determine where in the food web their fish is and how it interacts with other organisms in the lake.

The University of Maine Touch Tank Project

Grade: K – 12

The University of Maine Touch Tank Program brings Maine’s marine life to communities through hands-on learning. Developed with UMaine’s 4-H and marine research programs (4-H Youth Development Program, Center for Cooperative Aquaculture Research (CCAR), Aquaculture Research Institute, and the School of Marine Sciences), it lets participants explore native species and discover the importance of coastal ecosystems and sustainable aquaculture.

For more information, visit the UMaine Extension in Hancock County website.

The Importance of Seaweed

Grade: K – 12

Did you know that seaweed is used in a lot of the products we use every day? It helped create the oxygen in our atmosphere AND absorbs carbon emissions created from human activity. In this program, students will get a chance to investigate seaweed found in the Gulf of Maine, learn why it is important to the ecosystem (and world), and get a chance to make Seaweed Squishies (i.e. alginate critters) to take home!

4-H Aquaponics Project

participants exploring aquaponics

Grade: K – 12

The 4-H Aquaponics Project, in partnership with UMaine Center for Cooperative Aquaculture Research (CCAR) and the UMaine Aquaculture Research Institute, introduces K–12 youth to sustainable aquaponics. Participants explore plant and fish care while developing STEM and problem-solving skills. The program is free for Maine educators in classroom and community settings.

For more information, visit the UMaine Extension in Hancock County website.

4-H Virtual Learning Hub

Grade: K – 12

Maine 4-H Virtual Learning offers interactive online workshops for ages 5–18 on topics like science, agriculture, and leadership. Through hands-on activities and mentorship, youth can explore new interests and discover 4-H from anywhere.

For more information, visit Maine 4-H Virtual Learning Hub.