KSAT Kids: Latest on Pfizer vaccine and teens; San Antonio 6th grader wins statewide competition; Diet Coke and Mentos experiment

This week’s student spotlight is on Sofia Ramirez, who wrote, acted in awareness video about Texas aquifers

In this Wednesday, March 24, 2021 image from video provided by Duke Health, Alejandra Gerardo, 9, looks up to her mom, Dr. Susanna Naggie, as she gets the first of two Pfizer COVID-19 vaccinations during a clinical trial for children at Duke Health in Durham, N.C. In the U.S. and abroad, researchers are beginning to test younger and younger kids, to make sure the shots are safe and work for each age. (Shawn Rocco/Duke Health via AP) (Shawn Rocco, © Duke Health Photography)

Hello parents, teachers and students! Have you been enjoying the rollercoaster weather ride? I bet you are starting to get anxious about getting out for summer -- but don’t fret, that blaring heat and freedom will be here before you know it!

There is some big news developing on the COVID-19 vaccine front, as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is expected to authorize Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 12 to 15 by next week.

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The announcement comes after it was found that the Pfizer shot, which is already authorized for those age 16 and older, also provided protection to a younger group. It now sets up the opportunity for students to be able to get shots before the beginning of the next school year.

In this week’s KSAT Kids’ student spotlight, we highlight sixth-grader Sofia Ramirez, who wrote and acted in a video of awareness about Texas aquifers. Her efforts earned her first place out of 200 participants in the Take Care of Texas campaign. Sofia hopes her success will inspire others to take a chance on the things they love.

“Like, just go for it,” Ramirez said. “The worst that can happen is that you don’t win. So why not just try?”

In this week’s Kaiti’s Science Lab, Meteorologist Kaiti Blake takes us back to an original do-it-yourself science experiment, the classic Diet Coke and Mentos activity. Watch as with those two things you can get a scientific reaction. And FYI -- if you do try it, you’re going to need a place where it can get messy!

So kids, I also want to remind you that a very big day is coming up. Mother’s Day is on Sunday. So what all do you have planned? Whether they tell you or not, just know that every mom does like to be shown some appreciation. Here at KSAT, you can be a part of our Mother’s Day by posting in our mom gallery below.

For those students still seeking additional schooling help, the San Antonio Public Library continues to offer resources to help with their lessons. We also have a list of places offering free Wi-Fi for students and their families.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Ben Spicer

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Do you have an idea for a lesson or feedback? Email me at Bspicer@ksat.com with new content, lessons, story ideas or tips!

Here’s what can be found on KSAT Kids for Friday, May 7:

Student Spotlight

What’s Up South Texas!: SA 12-year-old combines talents to win statewide competition

A multi-talented San Antonio 6th grader combined her skills of performing to create a public service announcement that earned her first place out of 200 participants in the Take Care of Texas campaign.

What’s Up South Texas!: SA 12-year-old combines talents to win statewide competition

Do you know of a classroom or school that is doing amazing work and deserves to be featured in KSAT Kids? Nominate a student, teacher or school by emailing ksatkids@ksat.com.

Kid Activities

KSAT Kids Home Science: Diet Coke & Mentos

Are you looking for something fun to do at home that has a little bit of science behind it? Well, check out this cool classic demonstration using just Diet Coke and Mentos.

KSAT Kids Home Science: Diet Coke & Mentos

Preschoolers and teachers can get free, unlimited admission to SeaWorld San Antonio until 2022

Kids ages 5 and younger can get free admission to SeaWorld San Antonio for the 2021 season with a Preschool Card. Certified pre-K through 12th-grade teachers with an active teacher ID can also get in on the freebie.

Community Gallery: Wish your mom a Happy Mother’s Day

You can wish your mother a Happy Mother’s Day on ksat.com! Mother’s Day this year is on Sunday, May 9. Be sure to send us your photos with a special message in the gallery.

Happy Mother's Day | Pexels

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About the Author:

Ben Spicer is a digital journalist who works the early morning shift for KSAT.