ABOUT

More about the Science Materials Center

Mission: The right materials, at the right place, at the right time.

Order, upgrade, refurbish, and deliver “ready to teach” kits or modules to support inquiry-based science and ensure teachers receive the right materials at the right place at the right time.

Rationale

• Inquiry-based science requires hands-on materials. The availability of materials is often cited as a reason science is not taught in the classroom. Quality materials that support engaging curricula are difficult to find and maintain.
• Overall costs are reduced through sharing materials among schools on a rotating basis.

Staff

We have four permanent staff (contact), two long-term volunteers (more) and volunteers from organizations such as Seattle Works and United Way's Day of Caring.

Space

We occupy an approximately 14,500 square foot warehouse, which contains over 2,500 elementary school kits and over 120 middle school modules. All refurbishment occurs at the warehouse.

Services

We primarily provide material support for Seattle public elementary and middle schools, with limited support for high schools. We also contract with private and public schools to provide kits, refurbishment materials, and professional development. Please contact us if you'd like to explore what we can offer you.

History

The SMC is a component of the PreK-12 Inquiry-Based Science Program, which was founded by a collaboration between Seattle Public Schools and the University of Washington's Molecular Biotechnology department and the Institute of Systems Biology. Initial funding was provided by a Local Systemic Change initiative grant from the National Science Foundation and continues with major support from the district and local and regional partners.

Partners

We support the Seattle Aquarium's outdoor education program with material kits.

last updated: February 23, 2009