Matter Observed Through Hypothesis (MOTH)

In 2011, PEF established the Mel Merians Young Men’s Enrichment Program to honor the memory of Mel Merians, an Eastside High School alumna.

At its inception, the Young Men’s Enrichment Program was housed at School 9. Since then, it has moved to School 2 with a new teacher, new members, and a new name: MOTH (Matter Observed Through Hypothosis).

As members of MOTH and with the guidance of an experienced educator, young men explore science enrichment and personal development through hands-on interactive experiences. They’ve been able to explore science and develop connections with each other during several local trips, including Liberty Science Center, The Sterling Hill Mining Museum, and Barbour Pond in Garrett Mountain. They also had the opportunity to contemplate life and the cosmos when they went stargazing at William Paterson University.

In April 2015, the members of MOTH went on a life-changing, service-learning trip to the OSA Peninsula in Costa Rica! There, they became active participants in their curriculum and developed civic knowledge and skills. They were able to connect with local communities and learn how to care for the land, people, and other beings living in the area in ways that both honor tradition and use technology in cutting-edge ways.

We look forward to supporting our future MOTH cohorts in all their explorations and adventures in their life, career, and future.