William Rachlin, M.D., retired from medicine in December 1999, but that didn't stop this former surgeon from using his expertise. Two years ago, Dr. Rachlin became a teacher and mentor to middle school students in the Boston area through a volunteer program called Project RE-SEED (Retirees Enhancing Science Education through Experiments and Demonstrations).

A Project RE-SEED volunteer assists Burlington middle school students with a science demonstration.

"Project RE-SEED was the perfect opportunity for me to stay active in my retirement," said Dr. Rachlin, who has volunteered with Washington Irving Middle School in Roslindale and Grover Cleveland Middle School in Dorchester. "I gain great satisfaction in helping the children learn and enjoy seeing their interest in science develop."

Project RE-SEED, a decade-old program sponsored by Northeastern University, focuses on increasing the scientific literacy of the nation by enhancing science education. After a 13-week training program, volunteer physicians, engineers and scientists assist middle school instructors in teaching science and math.

RE-SEED participants volunteer, on average, one day a week for at least one academic year. They primarily perform experiments and demonstrations in the classroom using hands-on activities to engage students and facilitate their understanding of the basic concepts of physical science.

Kemon Taschioglou, school liaison with Project RE-SEED, believes these efforts make a big impact in getting students excited about science. "We often see seventh and eighth graders who are intimidated by complex science concepts, but when they are broken down into real life scenarios or visual demonstrations, they really catch on and want to learn."

For volunteers, the experience can be mutually beneficial. "I really enjoy the interactive learning as much as my students," said Dr. Rachlin. "I would strongly recommend this post-medical avocation."

Currently, more than a dozen retired MMS physicians volunteer with Project RE-SEED, a program recommended by the MMS Committee on Senior Volunteer Physicians and featured at the MMS Physician Volunteer Fair during the 2003 Annual Meeting.

Volunteers may choose a middle school on their own or select one from RE-SEED's growing list of schools calling for volunteers. Dr. Rachlin points out that most areas of the Commonwealth have requested assistance so finding a convenient location should not be a hindrance.

- Erin Riley

This fall, Northeastern University's RE-SEED program will offer several training programs for volunteers at various locations throughout Massachusetts. For more information, go to www.reseed.neu.edu or call Project RE-SEED at (617) 373-5154.