Applied Science For Kids Program
The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes (NCSL) is proud to offer the Applied Science for Kids (ASK) Program in partnership with the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD). This experiential, nature-based STEM program provides preschool, kindergarten, and first-grade students with meaningful, hands-on science experiences while equipping teachers with the tools and resources needed to bring engaging science lessons into their classrooms.
Since its inception, the ASK Program has served classes from every CMSD elementary school and welcomed more than 47,000 CMSD students to our 20-acre outdoor classroom, fostering early connections to nature and laying the groundwork for lifelong scientific curiosity.
“On behalf of the Cleveland Metropolitan School District, I thank the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes for providing the ASK Program and giving our youngest scholars firsthand science experiences in nature. As part of the #CLE4SCI Collaborative, the ASK Program lays a foundation for future science exploration by introducing our scholars to the natural world,” said Dr. Warren Morgan, CMSD CEO.
NCSL’s environmental educators also maintain communication with the classroom teachers throughout the year. After program registration, CMSD teachers receive extension activities they can lead in their classroom. NCSL hosts a “Teacher Advisory Council” each year comprised of 12 CMSD teachers. In addition, NCSL coordinates professional development for preschool through first-grade teachers, ensuring that learning continues well beyond the field experience. Recent programming includes certification in nationally recognized curriculums including Project Wild and Project Wet.
“We want to ensure that every child gets the most out of these experiences,” said Peter Bode, Executive Director of the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes. “As their connection to nature grows, so will their understanding of science. This is a landmark educational program with far-reaching benefits for Cleveland.”
To learn more or to support the ASK Program, please call us at 216.321.5935 or consider donating to help expand access to nature-based science learning for our community’s youngest learners.