Grade 3 students on the Bolles Lower School Ponte Vedra Beach Campus welcomed Action News Jacksonville meteorologist Garrett Bedenbaugh on September 23 for a presentation about weather forecasting and careers in meteorology.

Bedenbaugh shared how his interest in weather began when he was in Grade 3 and explained how that passion eventually led him to a career in broadcasting. He introduced students to a variety of careers in meteorology, including operational, research and aviation meteorology, in addition to broadcast meteorology. He also walked students through a typical day as an on-air meteorologist, from analyzing weather data and interpreting forecasts to presenting information to viewers using a green screen.

The visit reinforced several topics the Bulldogs have been studying in science, including the difference between weather and climate, the water cycle and different types of clouds. Bedenbaugh also introduced new concepts such as warm and cold fronts, high and low pressure systems and how dust particles help raindrops form. He even connected that last lesson to a familiar experience, explaining why rain always seems to arrive just after their parents wash the car!

Students engaged with the presentation and asked thoughtful questions about forecasting and working in meteorology. Grade 3 teachers Amy Coles ’98 and Pam Ganiel coordinated the visit to give students a firsthand look at the field and its impact on the community. View pictures from Bedenbaugh’s visit in our online photo gallery here. #BollesPVB