Kingswood High School students propose solar system model along Bridal Falls Path

Under the warm glow of the Wolfeboro city hall lights, a unique educational initiative took center stage during the Select Board meeting on May 21, 2025. Ellie Demaine, a passionate science teacher from Kingswood High School, presented an innovative project that aims to engage students and the community in a hands-on exploration of our solar system.

Demaine proposed the creation of a scale model of the solar system along the Bridal Falls Path, a picturesque route that stretches from the train station to Center Street. The project, set to run from May 22 to June 16, 2025, invites students to apply their research and mathematical skills in a creative way. The train station will represent the sun, with distances to the planets calculated based on the astronomical unit (AU), where one AU equals 80 feet in this model.

The students have diligently worked on this project, researching the planets and determining their relative distances from the sun. Demaine's request for a permit was a crucial step in bringing this educational vision to life, highlighting the importance of community support in fostering learning opportunities outside the classroom.

As the meeting progressed, the board members expressed enthusiasm for the project, recognizing its potential to inspire curiosity about science and astronomy among students and residents alike. This initiative not only promotes educational engagement but also encourages community interaction along the scenic Bridal Falls Path.

With the permit request poised for approval, the project stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of Wolfeboro's educators and the town's commitment to enriching the lives of its residents through creative educational endeavors. As the sun rises on this exciting venture, the community eagerly anticipates the unveiling of the solar system model, a celebration of learning that bridges the gap between education and the natural world.