Today we’d like to introduce you to Peter Claffey.
Hi Peter, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
In the fall of 2012, the Science Mill purchased the historic 1880 Johnson City Feed Mill to transform the renovated space into a world-class science museum. Open to the public since February 14, 2015; the Science Mill recycles a historic community landmark into a gathering place for the community and a forum for science exploration. The design was conceived not as a contrast between new and old but as the dynamic evolution of the mill from industrial production to a place that can produce science leaders for the new generation. Much of the 17,000 square feet of the old mill and iconic silos has been saved and repurposed to highlight 50 highly interactive, state-of-the-art exhibits focused on science and technology. In these historic structures, the students are introduced to opportunities in science and technology-based careers through programs designed to spark all students’ curiosity and imagination.
It wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
From its inception, founder and female biotechnology entrepreneur Bonita Baskin, Ph.D., envisioned utilizing the museum as a testbed for creating new strategies for student engagement in STEM and STEM careers. We have created a roadmap for how a museum-based center for informal learning can merge art+science to play an important role in growing the number of underrepresented students in Texas who will be entrepreneurial and critical thinkers in a 21st-century skilled workforce. In addition to the over 300,000 visitors to the museum, we have reached hundreds of Texas teachers and over 6,000 Texas students, most of whom are economically disadvantaged, through our STEM programs that are brought into their communities.
Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At the Science Mill, our primary focus is to ensure equitable access to STEM education opportunities. Regardless of their background or location, every individual should have the chance to engage in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. We have developed an innovative approach to STEM education through our highly interactive museum and off-Site programs to achieve this.
Our Off-Site programs are designed to reach communities across Texas and the nation, extending our impact beyond our physical location. By taking our educational initiatives directly to schools and communities, we can bridge the gap and bring quality STEM education to areas needing more access to such resources. A key component of our Off-Site programs is teacher training & equipping those teachers with the tools they need to deliver our innovative programs. We understand that teachers play a vital role in shaping students’ educational experiences, and by providing them with the necessary training and support, we empower them to deliver STEM education in their classrooms effectively.
Our approach creates a multiplier effect, as the impact of our teacher training extends beyond individual students to reach an even larger radius of communities. When teachers are equipped with the skills to deliver quality STEM education, they can make a lasting impact on the students they teach, who, in turn, can inspire their peers and future generations. Investing in teachers and expanding their capabilities creates a ripple effect that fosters a culture of scientific curiosity and innovation in numerous communities across Texas. At the Science Mill, we are committed to breaking down barriers and ensuring that all students have equal access to the transformative power of STEM education. Through our Off-Site programs and teacher training initiatives, we are proud to make a difference in communities throughout the state, sparking a passion for science and nurturing the next generation of innovators and problem solvers.
Pricing:
- 0-2 years old — free
- Ages 3-17 — $9.50
- Adult (Ages 18-64) — $11.00
- Seniors (Ages 65+) — $9.00
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sciencemill.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sciencemilltx/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScienceMill/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hill-country-science-mill/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/sciencemill
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@hillcountryscience
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/science-mill-johnson-city
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@sciencemill
