Digital Series  with Activities aligned with National Science Education StandardS

Compact Science 

Compact Science is an engaging new YouTube series from WNED PBS and the Buffalo Museum of Science that explores the wonders of science. Host Sarajane Gomlak Green investigates the geology of Niagara Falls, discovers the chemistry at work in sponge candy, learns how density is the key to lake-effect snow, and more. If you’re curious about the world around you, there’s a lot to explore and Compact Science will be your guide. 

Geared towards children (grades K-6), their families, and anyone with a curiosity of the world around them, each episode frames a scientific concept with a signature regional connection that celebrates the science and history of the Western New York and Southern Ontario region.

The videos are available here on our website along with instructions for the viewer challenge experiments that can be performed at home or in a classroom. Classroom ready, curriculum- targeted digital resources including the videos and  lesson plans are available in PBS LearningMedia. 

Compact Science is funded by The Joy Family Foundation.

ReachOut - Recognize Relationship Abuse

Mental Health Initiative | WAtch Now

Back to School: Navigating a New Normal | Elementary & Middle School

As part of WBFO’s Mental Health Initiative, Buffalo Toronto Public Media presents a three-part virtual series exploring the stressors and available resources for students, teachers, and faculty returning to in-person classrooms in the fall. This first discussion focused on elementary and middle school students. Academic transitions present a number of challenges for students, teachers, and parents and these pressures are heightened by new routines under the pandemic. Increased isolation has been difficult for many families, especially children. Effects of the pandemic can be associated with higher levels of anxiety and depression.

This virtual discussion series explores topics related to the reintegration of students and faculty into in-person learning. Topics include mental health and behavioral supports in schools, resources for parents, caregivers and families, and support and training for faculty and staff. 

WBFO’s Mental Health Initiative is funded by the Patrick P. Lee Foundation.

Moderated by Dave Debo, WBFO News Director
Panelists:
Jill Glowniak, LCSW, Family Support Center in Amherst Central School District 
Anne Landrigan, M.Sp.Ed., Coordinator for Student Services, Elmwood Village Charter School
Amanda Robert, Parent

Mental Health Initiative | WAtch Now

Back to School: Navigating a New Normal | High School

As part of WBFO’s Mental Health Initiative, Buffalo Toronto Public Media presents a three-part virtual series exploring the stressors and available resources for students, teachers, and faculty returning to in-person classrooms in the fall. This second discussion focused on high school students. Academic transitions present a number of challenges for students, teachers, and parents and these pressures are heightened by new routines under the pandemic. Increased isolation has been difficult for many families, especially children. Effects of the pandemic can be associated with higher levels of anxiety and depression.

This virtual discussion series explores topics related to the reintegration of students and faculty into in-person learning. Topics include mental health and behavioral supports in schools, resources for parents, caregivers and families, and support and training for faculty and staff. 

WBFO’s Mental Health Initiative is funded by the Patrick P. Lee Foundation.

Moderated by Dave Debo, WBFO News Director
Panelists:
Celia Spacone, Ph.D., Suicide Prevention Coalition of Erie County Coordinator
Douglas Hahn, Youth Peer Advocate Coordinator, Mental Health Advocates of WNY
Peg Barrett, LCSW-R, School Advocate, Mental Health Advocates of WNY

MEntal Health Initiative | Watch Now

Back to School: Navigating a New Normal | University & Higher Education

As part of WBFO’s Mental Health Initiative, Buffalo Toronto Public Media presents a three-part virtual series exploring the stressors and available resources for students, teachers, and faculty returning to in-person classrooms in the fall. This third discussion focused on University and Higher Education. Academic transitions present a number of challenges for students, teachers, and parents and these pressures are heightened by new routines under the pandemic. Increased isolation has been difficult for many families, especially children. Effects of the pandemic can be associated with higher levels of anxiety and depression.

This virtual discussion series explores topics related to the reintegration of students and faculty into in-person learning. Topics include mental health and behavioral supports in schools, resources for parents, caregivers and families, and support and training for faculty and staff. 

WBFO’s Mental Health Initiative is funded by the Patrick P. Lee Foundation.

Moderated by Dave Debo, WBFO News Director
Panelists:
Eileen Niland, LMHC (she/her), Counseling Center Director, Canisius College
Sarah Young, Buffalo State College
Jéan Michel Jr., third year law school student