An initiative built on the belief that school systems, individual schools, departments, or individual teachers can improve their STEM education practices through a positive, collaborative approach.
In partnership with ASSET, the Allegheny Intermediate Unit, and the Math & Science Collaborative, CSC provides pre-service and in-service teacher training related to best practices in both content and pedagogy.
Through a unique partnership with more than 150 regional preschool classrooms and PNC Grow up Great with Science, Carnegie Science Center has created comprehensive, teacher-tested resources to foster the STEM knowledge and confidence that educators need to help their students 3 – 5 develop an enthusiasm for, and understanding of, science concepts. The Science Center has provided professional development and classroom resources such as hands-on visits, resource manuals, and materials to early educators in Allegheny, Westmoreland, and Indiana counties. Recognizing the importance of families as first teachers, CSC has also developed and delivered engaging family night events to partnering counties.
Based on the success of these programs, Carnegie Science Center was engaged by the West Virginia Department of Education, with funding from the Benedum Foundation, to support its universal pre-K education programming. In 2015, the Science Center will deliver 20 professional development workshops and 20 family events in West Virginia, as part of this early learners program, along with backpacks filled with science books, materials, and activities that will go to libraries and classrooms throughout West Virginia for families of preschoolers to utilize at home.