The Reading Science Center (RSC) has been awarded a $142,000 grant from the Neag Foundation to support expanded access to science learning opportunities for children and families across Berks County. The funding will support renovations for new exhibit and classroom spaces, the development of new after-school science programs and reduce costs for school visits. Together, these initiatives are expected to impact more than 6,000 children annually.
“As we conduct our capital campaign for our physical expansion at 645 Penn Street in Reading, the Neag Foundation’s comprehensive gift will not only help us upgrade our learning spaces and add the needed resources for a new co-ed after-school program, but Neag is also subsidizing field trip costs for local schools. This is an extraordinary investment in STEM education for Berks County’s children,” said Ralia Vardaxis, Executive Director of the Reading Science Center.
These improvements will help the Reading Science Center accommodate more students in facilitated science investigations that align with classroom learning, better meet the needs of schools across the region, and expand outreach programs and public access.
In addition, Neag Foundation funding will help establish a new, free after-school science program for children in Berks County. Building on the success of the Center’s Sisters in STEM initiative, the new program will serve a younger demographic and broaden opportunities for students across the community to explore science beyond the school day.
“The Neag Foundation serves as a philanthropic force for positive change in educational initiatives dedicated to making a positive difference in the world. We are proud to support the Reading Science Center in its important work to bring STEM education and enrichment to more students. The Neag Foundation celebrates the life and legacy of Raymond and Carole Neag whose support for educational excellence was longstanding and produced important results,” said Sally Renzulli, Chair of the Neag Foundation Board of Trustees.
With this support from the Neag Foundation, the Reading Science Center is poised to reach more students, welcome more families, and create new opportunities for hands-on science learning across Berks County. Community members, educators, and families are invited to follow these exciting developments and learn more at readingsciencecenter.org.
