Initiative to Provide Hands-on Field Science Experiences for Low-Income Students
Avon, CO – Walking Mountains Science Center and Groupon Grassroots, the philanthropic arm of Groupon, announce the launch of a local campaign to provide scholarships for low-income children at local schools to participate in “Success in Science” field studies on Walking Mountains campus.
The “Success in Science” campaign will be available on the Denver Groupon Grassroots page beginning on Monday, July 30, 2012, and running through Sunday, August 7, 2012. Utilizing Groupon Grassroots’ collective action model, Groupon subscribers can pledge support for the “Success in Science” initiative in increments of $9.00 with each $450.00 raised enabling 50 low-income students to come to Walking Mountains for a day of hands-on science learning.
“Success in Science” currently serves half of the 5,800 students in Eagle County, 55% of whom are economically disadvantaged. “Success in Science” is one of the few opportunities that underserved children have to get outdoors and explore and learn about their mountain environment. The actual cost ($109 per student) of “Success in Science” is highly subsidized through philanthropic support from individuals, foundations, and corporations, reducing the per student fee to $15. Due to the high cost of living in this resort community, it is often a challenge for families to afford even this minimal amount, and school budget cuts are making it increasingly difficult for many schools to pay the fee for their low income students. Despite the value and impact of this learning opportunity, they will be unable to participate in “Success in Science” without the additional financial assistance raised through the Groupon Grassroots Campaign.
“Success in Science” curriculum is hands-on, research based, and supplements the School District’s science curriculum. During their field study day, the students work in teams and use the scientific method – learning by observing, assessing, analyzing and calculating while also developing critical thinking skills. “Success in Science” assists teachers with mandated goals to improve student test scores in reading, writing, math and science by using environmental science as an integrated context for learning. Walking Mountains’ expertise is teaching science in an experiential and engaging manner while following grade-specific state standards, enhancing overall student academic achievement and increasing classroom teachers’ familiarity and comfort with the subject matter.
“We are excited to employ the collective action model of Groupon Grassroots to raise support for ‘Success in Science’,” said Markian Feduschak, Executive Director. “We look forward to creating new awareness for Walking Mountains Science Center as one of the Denver-area organizations to be featured on Groupon Grassroots.”
One hundred percent of the Groupon Grassroots campaign proceeds will be used to provide tuition scholarships for low-income students for their participation in “Success in Science” field study programs.
This Groupon Grassroots campaign will aid in Walking Mountains’ goal is of providing a “Success in Science” field study experience annually to all Eagle County students no matter what their economic circumstances.
