Inspiring young minds through science ™

By Jennifer Moorehead, Founder and Executive Director

THE S.P.A.R.K.S. FOUNDATION provides under-privileged children with the opportunity to experience hands-on science. Begun in 2003 in memory of J. Clark Moorehead, the late husband of founder Jennifer Moorehead, the non-profit leg of Science Explorers brings science events, clubs and camps to children who otherwise may not be able to enjoy such experiences due to socio-economic barriers. Through partnerships with The AMETEK Foundation, Sovereign Bank, ALCOA and other generous companies, S.P.A.R.K.S. has influenced more than 10,000 children in nine different states by opening their eyes to the wonders of science.

---

“We’ve seen how we can spark children’s interests in science and learning. We love seeing the excitement that shows on their faces as they discover new things. We also want them to realize that they can do anything and be anything that they set their mind
to.”

Jennifer Moorehead, S.P.A.R.K.S. Founder and Executive Director

---

The philosophies of the S.P.A.R.K.S. Foundation and Science Explorers are grounded in the fact that learning in science begins in early childhood. Young minds are curious about science and ready to engage in the practices and language of science. These principles— learned at an early age—form a foundation to be built upon and strengthened throughout a student’s K-12 education.

The Foundation and its programs also prepare children for future careers. Science, Technology, Engineering & Math are the focal point of the education of tomorrow’s workforce. Workforce projections for 2014 by the U.S. Department of Labor show that 15 of the 20 fastest growing occupations require significant science and mathematics training to successfully compete for a job.

---

“Today more than ever before, science holds the key to our survival as a planet and our security and prosperity as a nation. It’s time we once again put science at the top of our agenda and work to restore America’s place as
the world leader in science and technology.”

– President Barack Obama

---

Through corporate funding, the S.P.A.R.K.S. Foundation has created and implemented a successful model for a Classroom Visitation Program. In this initiative, trained education professionals engage elementary students in hands-on, inquiry-based science projects and education. Lessons are guided by state-mandated standards of education and backed by proven teaching methodology and best practices. Its main goal is to support the school’s curriculum and direct the students’ approach to every experiment with a specific scientific methodology. The first- hand experimentation and investigation nurtures a solid understanding of the principles and concepts of science, but also excites and motivates the students towards becoming life-long science learners.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

What imprint will your company leave on the next generation?

If you are an individual or a business looking for opportunities to give back to the community, consider sharing your resources in the following ways:

Scholarships

After School Clubs

Summer Science Camps

College Scholarships

Sponsorship of Schools Assemblies and Family Science Nights

Donate an interactive, high-energy science program to a school or group of your choice. Make an impact on 50-500 people.

Provide an awesome hour of science “edu-tainment.”

Classroom Visits Work directly with local elementary schools by sponsoring a series of science lessons aligned with the National Science Standards.

Sponsor fun, inquiry-based, hands-on activities. Encourage employee volunteers. If you or your organization would like to sponsor a child or an event, please contact: Jennifer Moorehead, Executive Director jmoorehead@scienceexplorers.com or Sarah Troy, Program Director

solarsarah@scienceexplorers.com

www.kidsintoscience.com

1.877.870.9517