The Waynflete Wire

Students in Upper School biology recently delved into the practical application of dog genetics. Science teacher Katrina St. John arranged for her classes to collaborate with Debbie Landry, founder of iXplore, an organization that promotes STEM lab activities and curriculum in classrooms.

For this project, students looked at the trait of furnishings (longer facial fur) in dogs. By using DNA extracted from eight dogs and running it on gel electrophoresis, students were able to determine whether a dog was homozygous wild type, homozygous mutant type, or heterozygous (a mix of both).

Students were able to deduce the dominance pattern in this trait. Having furnishings is dominant, which is why we see dogs like golden doodles with long facial fur. Using sophisticated laboratory equipment, biology students were able to put their newfound knowledge of genetics to use and witness the power of genotyping.

Abby Aleshire ’20 competed in the “Maine Chinese Speaking Contest” in Bangor on May 17. This annual competition includes a 3-4 minute speech written on a topic of the applicant’s choice—and recited from memory. Abby’s recital of an ancient Chinese poem so moved the contest judges that they asked her to recite it a second time. She won first place in the “advanced Chinese level” category. Congratulations Abby!

Pictured above: Abby with Chinese teacher Huiru (Whitney) Zou

Caring participation in the community is a fundamental value at Waynflete.  We believe such engagement promotes social welfare and justice in the world while cultivating important attitudes and meaningful connections for those who serve.  Each year, the faculty confers recognition to all eleventh and twelfth grade students who have distinguished themselves as community servants. Such distinction derives from a devotion to service, both in and outside of Waynflete, as indicated by dedication over time and a current level of involvement that exceeds school expectations.

Continue reading “Congratulations to this year’s Upper School student award winners”