Programs

Perot Museum of Nature & Science

Bringing Science to Life

Perot Museum of Nature & Science Community Programs

Engaging STEM Learning

At the Heartland Education Foundation, we are dedicated to providing students with hands-on, engaging learning experiences that ignite curiosity and inspire a love of science. That’s why we are thrilled to partner with the Perot Museum of Nature and Science to bring innovative STEM programming directly to our Heartland and Crandall students. Through this partnership, we are able to offer exciting, hands-on classroom visits and field trips that align with school curricula and enhance students’ understanding of science and technology.

Hands-On Learning with the Perot Museum’s Community Programs

The Perot Museum of Nature & Science is much more than just a place to view exhibits—it's a gateway to interactive learning. The Community Programs Department is dedicated to taking STEM education beyond the museum and directly into the classrooms of schools across the DFW area, including Heartland ISD and Crandall ISD. Through a variety of exciting, hands-on programs, students get the chance to explore topics like engineering, biology, and space science in a way that is both fun and educational.

Classroom Visits:

Bringing Experts to Your Door

One of the most exciting aspects of the partnership is that leading educators from the Perot Museum come directly to Heartland and Crandall schools, bringing all the necessary materials and expertise to engage students in dynamic, hands-on science activities. These visits are designed to complement the classroom curriculum while offering students a chance to experience science in a way that is both exciting and relevant.

Popular Programs Include:

• Engineering Ninja Warriors: Students get the chance to solve engineering challenges, developing problem-solving skills while building their own obstacles and testing them in action.
• Maker Labs: A hands-on program that empowers students to create, innovate, and experiment with various materials and tools to bring their ideas to life.
• Electrical Exploration: This program introduces students to the world of electricity and circuits through engaging, interactive activities that allow them to build and test electrical components.
• Bio Labs: Students dive into the world of biology, exploring ecosystems, genetics, and the fascinating world of living organisms.
• Solar Superstars: This program focuses on renewable energy and solar power, allowing students to learn about the importance of sustainable energy through hands-on experiments.
  

Field Trips:

Exploring Science Up Close

In addition to classroom visits, students also have the opportunity to visit the Perot Museum of Nature and Science itself. The museum features 11 exhibit halls, covering a wide range of topics, from biodiversity to the wonders of space. These field trips provide students with the chance to interact with exhibits and participate in activities that bring scientific concepts to life.

• Biodiversity Halls: Students explore the rich variety of life on Earth, learning about ecosystems, animal behavior, and the importance of conservation.
• Space Wonders: Students take a journey through the universe, learning about the solar system, the stars, and the mysteries of space.
• Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on exhibits give students a chance to explore scientific concepts through interactive displays, making learning fun and engaging.
  

Educational Resources for Every Learner

In addition to in-person visits, the Perot Museum offers alternative educational resources that provide students with access to virtual classroom instruction. These resources are designed to engage students in meaningful STEM learning, even if they can’t participate in a physical field trip or classroom visit.

• Virtual Classroom Instruction: Interactive, virtual programs are available to help reinforce classroom lessons and provide students with new opportunities to explore science, technology, and engineering from the comfort of their school or home.
  

Why the Perot Museum Partnership Matters for Heartland & Crandall Students

By providing students with hands-on learning experiences, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science helps foster a deeper understanding of STEM concepts. Here’s why this partnership is so valuable for our community:

• Inspiring Curiosity and Exploration: These programs encourage students to ask questions, explore the world around them, and think critically about science and technology.
• Aligning with Curriculum: The programs are designed to complement the school curriculum, ensuring that students are learning important science concepts in a way that supports their academic growth.
• Affordable Learning Opportunities: The Heartland Education Foundation provides funding for these programs, making them accessible to all students without any additional costs to families.
• Building Future STEM Leaders: These experiences help students develop a strong foundation in STEM fields, preparing them for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.