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Every summer, Project Exploration immerses a dozen Chicago Public School students into the world of paleontology and dinosaur field work and launches them into a long term relationship with PE, science, and discovery

Once a JP, always a JP..
That’s the motto of Project Exploration’s Junior Paleontologists. The JP program immerses Chicago Public School students into the world of paleontology and dinosaur field work in the American West and the excitement of scientific discovery.

The JP program begins in Chicago with a two week training in anatomy, geology, and paleontology. After the two weeks are complete, we travel on expedition to the dinosaur-rich Badlands of Montana.

The expedition launches a long-term relationship between the students and Project Exploration. PE continues to support students with academic workshops, internships, and leadership opportunities throughout their high school careers.

The thirteen 2005 Junior Paleontologists come from ten different Chicago Public Schools. Students are chosen not on grades and academic ability, but rather their passion, curiosity, and drive to succeed.