USD 265 Goddard Public Schools -

Eisenhower High School students recently embarked on a captivating flame test experiment, led by Chemistry Teacher Hannah Reynolds. This hands-on lab provided an exciting opportunity for students to explore science while experiencing the thrill of working with fire. During the experiment, students were tasked with burning both known and unknown chemical compounds. By observing the distinct colors produced by each substance when exposed to a flame, they were able to identify the elements present. This process, known as flame testing, is a fundamental technique in chemistry that allows scientists to analyze the composition of various materials.


The underlying principle behind the flame test is the excitation of electrons within metal atoms. When these atoms are heated, their electrons absorb energy and jump to higher energy levels. However, this excited state is unstable, and the electrons quickly return to their original, lower energy levels. As they do so, they release excess energy in the form of light. The specific wavelength of this emitted light corresponds to a particular color, enabling scientists to identify the elements involved. “It reminds me every day of the impact teachers can have in the lives of their students,” shared Reynolds. The flame test is a visually striking and engaging way to introduce students to the concept of atomic spectra. By observing the vibrant colors produced by different elements, students gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between energy, light, and matter.


Engaging classroom activities like this are just one example of ways that EHS educators continue to elevate education, both in and outside of the classroom. “From the moment I walked through the doors here, I knew that this was the place for me,” shared Reynolds. “Small actions speak volumes about the culture here at Eisenhower. I immediately knew that this was a community I wanted to be a part of.” 


In her second year of teaching at EHS, Reynolds loves conducting labs like this because they help get students eager to learn about the subject matter. Classes were visibly excited throughout the experiment, eagerly anticipating the colorful displays produced by each chemical. The lab provided an opportunity for scientific exploration and fostered a sense of wonder and curiosity among young minds.


“EHS staff are committed to building strong, positive relationships with students,” continued Reynolds. “This connection, in my opinion, is the foundation for a student’s success. I truly believe that students are more motivated to learn and engage in class when they know their teachers genuinely care about them.” Reynolds, like other science instructors in Goddard, strives to make content come alive through hands-on classroom activities, labs, projects, and demonstrations. This helps students become more invested in learning, by being able to see and experience the material and subject matter. The flame test serves as a potent reminder that even the simplest of tests can reveal the complex beauty of chemistry.


Like the staff and students of EHS, our #265Family needs chemistry to flow both inside and outside of the classrooms and hallways. On the bus rides home, walking to the field or locker rooms for practice, loading up band instruments for a game, perfecting a stage set before a show, walking away from a debate tournament with a trophy - whatever journey our students are on, Goddard Public Schools staff are here to help them along every step of the way. “It truly feels like we are a family,” Reynolds said. “We all work together to ensure that students feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. I am proud to be part of such a strong community.”