Science education is in crisis. Nationally, only 22% of high school graduates are proficient in science, and international results show students are emerging from school with low interest in science. These learning gaps are occurring in a moment when science itself is openly questioned in the face of rapidly evolving problems, like the climate crisis.
The Smithsonian Science Education Center helps to fill these gaps and meet the needs of a changing educational landscape through our mission to transform K-12 education through science in collaboration with communities across the globe. The center is a necessary, trusted source in science education; its inquiry-based approach to science education is a proven method to accelerate learning for all students and close gaps for at risk students.
Through our learning resources—such as our Smithsonian Science for the Classroom curriculum, Smithsonian Science Stories series, and our Smithsonian Science for Global Goals community research guides—the center leverages the Smithsonian’s unparalleled network of scientists and vast collection of scientific artifacts to inspire inquiry and problem solving. We help students apply what they learn to explain scientific phenomena and engineer solutions to real world problems.
A gift to the Smithsonian Science Education Center enables us to open pathways to new knowledge for students by: building a national program to recognize and support world-class science education in schools; expanding programs to diversify the pool of science educators; and creating tools to support educators as they teach about socio-scientific issues and emerging technologies. In addition, a named endowment of our director will ensure your legacy in transforming education through science.
Your donation ensures that all young people, regardless of their background, geography or experience, get the high-quality science education they deserve and are prepared to be the next generation of innovators, scientists and engineers.