Project Exploration Blog

Wouldn’t it be great if there was a place where a curious kid could learn about science alongside scientists? Where they could be immersed in discovery? Where they could be known by name and supported to pursue their interests – regardless of whether or not they did well in school or how financially well-off their parents were? Where they’d have a chance to grow their minds and their self confidence – along with their sense of wonder?

There is a place like this. It’s called Project Exploration.

Project Exploration is an innovative, high-impact science education organization with a track record of success inspiring the public – especially minority youth and girls – with the wonders of discovery. Our dynamic youth development programs change the lives of hundreds of Chicago Public students each year with fieldwork, expeditions and personalized programs with scientists.

Project Exploration a place that is:  

• Enabling students to graduate and go to college: 96% of the students who participate in our field experiences graduate high school. Additionally, Project Exploration students are 3 times more likely to enroll in a four-year college than a typical Chicago Public School student.
• Placing students on a pipeline to professional careers in science: 34% of all students and 43% of all girls who graduate from high school as Project Exploration field alumni have gone on to major in science.
• Creating educational revenue-generating entrepreneurial programs that enable access to science: Through innovative partnerships with regional and international cultural institutions, our educational exhibits bring the wonders of discovery all over the world while generating revenue that complements our fundraising efforts.

Together with the help of scientists and people like you, Project Exploration is working to change the face of science. At a time when four out of five jobs require science and technology skills, Project Exploration provides a new model for engaging and retaining today’s youth in science and technology.

Join us…

This blog is a chance to for us – staff, students, scientists, and Project Exploration cofounders Gabrielle Lyon and Paul Sereno – to share our experiences with you and with each other. This blog is a new thing for us and we’re looking forward to seeing how it goes. Let us know what you think!

-gabrielle lyon

executive director and cofounder, Project Exploration