The connecticut science center will respond to a covid-19 need expressed by families for outdoor learning experiences by developing four outdoor, stem-focused events at its outdoor plaza

The Connecticut Science Center will develop four outdoor STEM-focused events and a permanent outdoor interactive exhibit supported by a $100,000 Project Grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) under the National Leadership Grants program (CFDA 45.312). The outdoor events will focus on different areas of science and partner with local arts performers, vendors, and educators to provide interactive demonstrations aligned with Next Generation Science Standards. The permanent outdoor exhibit will allow visitors to use their shadow to tell time and support citizen science activities. Funded activities are intended to support student recovery from COVID-19 by providing outdoor STEM experiences connecting them to the local environment. All products and services will be delivered in Hartford, Connecticut through October 31, 2022.

Each event will focus on different areas of science and will feature partnerships with local arts performers, vendors, and partners, as well as museum educators who will lead interactive science demonstrations that connect to next generation science standards. Additionally, the museum will develop a permanent outdoor interactive exhibit that allows visitors to use their shadow to tell the time, along with additional content that supports citizen science activities. Project activities will support students' recovery from the covid-19 pandemic by providing outdoor stem experiences outdoors that help them connect to the local environment.