Our Mission: To inspire, motivate and stimulate innovative thinking in the
areas of science, technology, engineering, math, and career development for
K-12 students; enhancing their lives through instruction, hands-on, and
experiential education delivered through partnerships with schools,
corporations, universities, and community.
Who We Are: Established in 1959, the Science Center was the first of its kind
in the United States and was the prototype for other centers in the nation. We
have become the premier science learning resource in the area. Students of all
ages participate in interactive, "hands-on" classes that teach them how to
hypothesize, discover, investigate, interpret and evaluate.
The Science Center is an independent nonprofit organization. Support from our
community plays a vital role in ensuring that the Science Center's education
programs continue to be available.
What We Do: Classroom Extension Program: More than 32 thousand Pinellas County and private school students visited the Center last year on field trips that are interactive science workshops featuring well-trained teachers and unique facilities including a 600 gallon Marine Touch Tank, a wetlands area, a Bay News 9 weather station, and a state of the art Planetarium.
Mobile Outreach Program: We "deliver" hands-on science programs to private schools, nursing homes, ALFs, clubs and organizations. More than 10 thousand people enjoy these programs annually.
Pre-K classes: During the fall and winter school year the Center provides parent/child pre-k classes for children 2-5.
Science Camps: Science workshop camps for students in K-12 are available during winter, spring and summer school breaks. More than 2,000 children take part each year.
Senior Computer Classes: People 55 and older are invited to take computer classes at the Center twice a year.
Cooperative Programs with Colleges and Universities: The Science Center forms ongoing partnerships with institutions of higher learning though programs, exhibits, and internship programs.
Events, Lecture Series, and Workshops: Inquiring minds of all ages enjoy science-oriented topics during the Center’s many special events including Astronomy Day, Archaeology Day, Black History Month (honoring African/American Scientists and Inventors), and other fun activities.
Center’s Lecture Series: Features world-renowned scientists discussing up-to-the-minute topics such as DNA research and the latest in space exploration.
The annual Elementary School Science Showcase and Home School Science Fair are two ways the Center teaches children the realities of science research.
"Give your kids an edge - let them learn science."
Visitor Information: Get information on directions, hours, admissions and how to Get Involved with the Science Center here.
To inspire, motivate and stimulate innovative thinking in the areas of science, technology, engineering, math, and career development for K-12 students; enhancing their lives through instruction, hands-on, and experiential education delivered through partnerships with schools, corporations, universities, and community.
