Funds will help ‘Bridge the Learning Gap’

Funds will help ‘Bridge the Learning Gap’
for local school children
Children’s Museum Tucson received a nearly $140,000 Museums for America grant that will be used to spur learning in science, technology, engineering and mathematics for local elementary school children. The grant will be matched by the museum.

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), a national organization that supports innovation in U.S. museums and libraries, selected Children’s Museum Tucson from among 521 grant applicants. The funds will be used to increase affordable and accessible out-of-school STEM-based learning opportunities for elementary students.

“By approaching learning in a fun, engaging, out-of-classroom learning environment with a targeted focus, student success will increase and the imaginative sparks will fly, helping build the foundation for a lifelong love of learning,” said Lori A. Conner, principal at Carrillo K-5 Magnet School.

A partnership with Carrillo and Safford K-8 Magnet School – both within walking distance of the museum will create weekly STEM-based afterschool programs. The program will start in January with third graders. In consecutive years, those who started the program in third grade will come in to mentor and help teach the new group, a “Train the Trainer” program that builds leadership skills.

“This opportunity would allow for collaboration to enrich and reinforce our curriculum,” said Steven Gabaldon, principal at Safford. “Students will benefit from the experience through improved performance in the classroom and in life.”

Other programs funded by the grant, which will be matched by the museum, will include summer camps, outreach, school tours and professional development for teachers.

“We are absolutely thrilled!” said Hilary Van Alsburg, director of philanthropy and learning at Children’s Museum Tucson. “We have robust STEM programs for preschool and lower-elementary students, and we are so excited to be able to expand those programs to include older children.”

The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 123,000 libraries and 35,000 museums. Our mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Our grant making, policy development, and research help libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow IMLS on Facebook and Twitter.

Children’s Museum Tucson serves more than 165,000 children and families annually who come to experience fun, hands-on learning through play. The exhibits, programs and special events invite the young and the young-at-heart to discover and explore the arts, sciences and humanities. Children’s Museum Oro Valley is designed for children ages 0-5 and provides exhibits and programs that stimulate curiosity and motivate learning. Children’s Museum Tucson is a 501(c )(3) non-profit.

200 S Sith Ave. Tucson, AZ 85701
520.792.9985
ChildrenMuseumTucson.org
11010 N Oracle Road
520.297.8004
Cmorovalley.org