The Discovery Center of Springfield (DCS) in Springfield, Missouri, is an interactive, hands-on science center dedicated to inspiring curiosity and a life-long love of learning through memorable and engaging hands-on experiences in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) [1] In December of 2021, inaugural grand prize winner of the Center for Education Reform and media partner Forbes STOP Award. [2] The Wall Street Journal editorial board wrote about the museum that became a school winning the $1 million award. [3]
At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March of 2020, the Discovery Center remained open and delivered on their mission by providing emergency, licensed childcare for the families of healthcare workers and first responders.[4] DCS provided over 200,000 hours of free childcare and over 50,000 free meals and snacks.
Its history goes back to the late 1980s when a group of community volunteers led by the junior league of Springfield began a feasibility study for a children's hands-on museum project for Springfield and the Ozark region.
In 1991 Discovery Center of Springfield was incorporated. Over the next six years the volunteer board of directors and other committed community volunteers planned the building purchase and renovation, exhibits and program development and business operation. Since its opening in January 1998, the DCS has developed and added a great number of programs and exhibits. Collaboration has been the key to the success of this regional facility. Likewise, it is critical that the DCS partners with other agencies, individuals, foundations and businesses to achieve their respective goals. The DCS has established itself as a leader in the region of unique and engaging educational experiences. In 2000, they completed a master plan process and determined it was time to begin planning for expansion. In September 2006 DCS opened a new 30,000 sq. ft. building expansion with additional exhibits.
References
- ^ "Discovery Center | The Discovery Center". Retrieved 2021-12-16.
- ^ Releases, Forbes Press. "Forbes And The Center For Education Reform Announce $1 Million STOP Award Winner". Forbes. Retrieved 2021-12-16.
- ^ Board, The Editorial (2021-12-15). "Opinion | Educators Inspired Amid Covid". Wall Street Journal. ISSN 0099-9660. Retrieved 2021-12-16.
- ^ "Science Centers Step Up to Provide Childcare for Essential Workers". The Association of Science and Technology Centers. Retrieved December 16, 2021.
Charlotte McCoy, Discovery Center