Triad Foundation Funds Ocean Science Project for Rural Schools

(SciencenterNews, Spring 2006)

The Triad Foundation recently awarded the Sciencenter a $60,000 grant to support the development of a new ocean science initiative for rural schools. The project will bring every second-grader from every rural elementary school in Tompkins and Cortland City School District to the Sciencenter free of charge during the next three years. Funding will cover transportation costs, admission, and program fees, and will be available to schools beginning this fall.

Students will explore the exhibition, "Connect to the Ocean" which includes a touch tank with live marine invertebrates. Through the touch tank, four related exhibits, and special programming with staff, students will become familiar with introductory concepts of ecology and learn about the importance of oceans as habitats.