Lightning Session: Expanded Role of Science Centers in Their Communities

Integrating STEM Communities and Local Civic Engagement
Local policymakers regularly encounter scientific challenges, from climate change to artificial intelligence to public health, but often lack expertise to address them. This session will explore the role that science centers can play in tackling these issues and provide tools for science educators to become advocates in their local community.
Presenters
Christopher Jackson – Engineers & Scientists Acting Locally
Lina Zhu – Engineers & Scientists Acting Locally

Science Centers and Museums As Second Responders
This session explores how science centers and museums can serve as "second responders" during crises, supporting communities through educational recovery, mental health resources, and safe spaces. Featuring case studies like the Challenger Learning Center, attendees will gain strategies to integrate resilience-focused initiatives, reinforcing their institutions' roles as essential community partners.
Presenters
Alan Hanstein – Challenger Learning Center

What a Difference a Day Makes: Supporting Elementary Teachers Through More Meaningful Field Trips
The American Museum of Natural History has created two unique programs, a weeklong residency and a facilitated field trip model, to support elementary teachers in connecting Museum content to their classroom curriculum. These programs supplement elementary science education while deepening a sense of belonging in teachers coming to the museum.
Presenters
Ben Taylor – American Museum of Natural History