OSMRE Inspires Kids with Hands-on Science

What Is OSMRE and Why Are They Teaching Kids About Coal?
OSMRE's mission is to apply science, technology, and education to coal-related challenges. That goes beyond regulating mines; it includes inspiring the next generation to become stewards of the land. Christopher A. Toney, AML Program Specialist, has made it his mission to bring that message directly to kids in a way they'll remember.

Students sitting at desks in a classroom, attentively listening to Christopher A. Toney, AML Program Specialist for Education Outreach in William H. Justice Elementary School.

What Did Students Learn?
At William H. Justice Elementary School in Winchester, Kentucky, second, third, and fourth graders engaged in an exciting hands-on science experiment that sparked their curiosity for learning. During the lesson, students explored how coal forms from ancient swamps into compressed rock over millions of years, learn how to treat Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) water, and how Abandoned Mine Lands (AML) are restored after mining ends.

What Was the Geologic Play-Doh Experiment?
Each student used Play-Doh and actual pieces of coal to build sedimentary rock layers inside a clear plastic jar, recreating how coal seams form over geological time. The result? A sealed, take-home geologic model that every kid could show their family and friends. "The hands-on experiment sparks imagination and creativity, allowing students to see how sedimentary rocks build up over millions of years to form coal seams." - Christopher A. Toney, OSMRE

Play-Doh experiment: Using modeling compound and small coal pieces, students recreate how coal seams form over millions of years from compressed organic material.

Why Does This Kind of Science Outreach Matter?
By showing up in schools, OSMRE builds a lasting educational partnership with the community. "This kind of outreach allows OSMRE to remain present and accessible in coalfield communities. It helps families understand that there is a federal agency here to answer their questions." -Christopher A. Toney, OSMRE

Is This a One-Time Event or an Ongoing Program?
This is a three-year, building-block curriculum designed to grow with the students. In second grade, students learn about water pollution. In third grade, they explore coal formation. In fourth grade, they dive into Acid Mine Drainage (AMD). Each presentation is also designed to stand alone, meaning schools can request OSMRE for a single event and students still walk away with something valuable.

What Do Second Graders Actually Do in the Water Pollution Lesson?
The curriculum starts in second grade with something every kid can relate to: water. But not just any water. Students learn the difference between 'good water' and 'bad water', and what makes each one safe or dangerous for people and aquatic life. The lesson introduces the pH scale in elementary terms, explaining how different liquids can be harmful depending on how acidic or alkaline they are. Then comes the hands-on experiment.

Students use non-toxic pH test strips to test several everyday liquids, including tap water, Coca-Cola, and vinegar, to figure out where each one falls on the pH scale. Toney creates a simulated version of mine water by placing pieces of coal into a jar of acidic liquid and adding orange food coloring. The result is a vivid, visual representation of what acid mine drainage actually looks like in the environment. Students also learn about OSMRE's mission to reclaim abandoned mine sites and clean up the hazards left behind, with real examples shown during the presentation. It's science education and community outreach rolled into one.

What Is Acid Mine Drainage and Why Should Kids Learn About It?
Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) happens when water interacts with exposed rock and minerals left behind by mining, creating a chemical reaction that can leach harmful substances into streams and groundwater. It's one of the most widespread environmental challenges in coal country. Teaching fourth graders about it isn't just science education. It helps students develop critical awareness of their surroundings, recognize potential hazards, and grow into future stewards of the land.

Students using non-toxic pH test strips to test several everyday liquids, including tap water, Coca-Cola, and vinegar, to figure out where each one falls on the pH scale.

What Happens After the Lesson?
Second graders take home their pH experiment sheet with the OSMRE logo, a conversation starter about water safety and mining hazards. Third graders carry out their sealed Play-Doh jars, a miniature geologic cross-section they built with their own hands. Fourth graders walk away with a deeper understanding of how chemistry, the environment, and federal policy all connect in their own backyard. Each lesson reinforces what the student learned, and it introduces OSMRE to families who may never have heard of the agency before.

How Can Schools Get OSMRE to visit them?
OSMRE's educational outreach is available to schools and community events by invitation. Whether you're a teacher looking for an unforgettable STEM experience, a school administrator planning a science event, or a community organization in a coalfield region, OSMRE is ready to bring our specialist on-site.

Learn more and get involved at Education & Outreach | Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement