Our Mission/Who We Are
The Einstein Project is a nonprofit organization partnering with schools and communities to provide leadership and support for science education in Wisconsin. We offer 42 inquiry-based science units, developed by the Smithsonian Institution and National Academy of Sciences, to schools giving children the opportunity to learn by doing. The units allow schools to provide an exemplary hands-on science curriculum for students. The six to twelve week units contain enough materials for an entire class and are leased to schools for a modest fee.
"The Einstein kits have given a greater understanding of science to our students in their daily lives. The kits encompass entire science concepts at the appropriate grade level of interest. I feel we perform better on the WKCE tests, by using the kits."
-- Jeanne Czech, Principal, Freedom Elementary School, Freedom, Wisconsin
Who We Serve
The Einstein Project serves 43 school districts in the state, primarily in Northeast Wisconsin. We serve most Brown County districts with client districts in Central and Southern Wisconsin as well. Each year, more than 85,000 student participations in hands-on science are made possible because of The Einstein Project.
The Einstein Project FY 2009-2010 Annual Report
The Einstein Project FY 2008-2009 Annual Report
The Einstein Project FY 2007-2008 Annual Report
The Einstein Project FY 2006-2007 Annual Report
How It Works
Schools lease the units from The Einstein Project at affordable rates so all interested schools districts can participate without having to purchase costly materials for a first-rate science education. Because The Einstein Project owns the kits, the management, maintenance and storage of the units is our responsibility, not the schools'. Teachers receive the units in a "ready-to-teach" condition. Without Einstein, many elementary schools would not have the time or materials to do quality science in the classroom.
"There's nothing better than a teacher having a prepared kit ready to go. I like teaching science and I never thought I'd say that."
-- Jill Scharf, 3rd & 4th grade teacher, Herman Elementary School, Mayville, Wisconsin (English, Social Studies)
Teachers Teaching Teachers
Prior to using an Einstein Unit in the classroom, teachers must go through their own hands-on training in the classroom. During these 4 to 8 hours of instruction, educators become comfortable with the materials and gain knowledge of the subject matter leading to confidence in the classroom. We offer training three times a year through in-services and a summer Einstein Academy. The Einstein Project has trained more than 4,650 teachers from 383 schools since 1991.
"This is my first exposure to The Einstein Project & I am sold on using all the kits!"
-- In-service participant (not identified).
Driven by Community Partnerships
The Einstein Project maintains strong partnerships with many different facets of the community. Business not only supports the organization financially, but also provides science consultants or resources for teachers. Donated scientific and technological expertise as well as monetary gifts ensures an affordable lease rate to schools.
The Einstein Project hosts a number of fundraising events that also make Brown County a nicer place to live. Butterflies & Friends on Parade is a community-wide celebration of art and science featuring creatures from the natural world decorated by artists and placed around the community. At the end of the summer these art pieces are sold at an auction benefiting The Einstein Project. The Einstein Project Science Expo each January is a kid and family-focused event features the science behind everyday events and careers. At the Expo students have the opportunity to make silly putty, hold a 20-foot snake or create a new yogurt flavor.
How We Do It
In addition to our community events, The Einstein Project must offset the reduced costs to schools with additional fundraising. A partnership with Festival Foods for an annual golf scramble, a Friends of Einstein bi-annual campaign and corporate and individual grants also help meet our financial goals. The remaining 60% of our operating income is raised through programming.
"My daughter loved the 2nd grade unit 'The Life Cycle of Butterflies'. It opened her eyes and curiosity to nature and the world around her. I would highly recommend Einstein science for schools."
-- Karmen Lemke, Kaukauna, Wisconsin
Our History
In 1991, an assessment of the state of science education in Brown County revealed the absence of a hands-on science curriculum, a lack of depth in the teacher's science knowledge, and a limited resource base. A core group of educators and business people joined together to engage in long-term efforts to effect lasting change in these areas.
The Einstein Project was incorporated in 1991 as a consortium of nine area school districts, which has since expanded to many parts of Wisconsin. The founders realized that as the environment becomes more endangered and as the technology becomes more complex, there is an increasing need for young people to become more knowledgeable in science, technology and mathematics.
The Einstein Project is the only entity of its kind in the state of Wisconsin and is a national model for systemic change in Science Education.
- In 2010, Carol Pearson, Professional Development Director for The Einstein Project, was named to the Professional Development Advisory Committee of the National Science Resources Center. Recognized as an expert in hands-on science and teacher training, Pearson will help to oversee the design and implementation of professional development for elementary teachers.
- In 2007, a study from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay indicates The Einstein Project's hands-on science curriculum results in higher state standardized science test scores among 4th grade students, including those with disabilities, those with limited English proficiency, females, and minority students.
- In 2003, chosen as host site for the Next Step Institute by the Association of Science Materials Centers (ASMC) and the National Science Resources Center (NSRC).
- In 2001, selected by the NSRC as a field-test site for STC/MS Organisms: Macro to Micro middle school unit.
- In 2000, member of the National Science Foundation's Middle School Professional Development Advisory Board.
- In 1999, recognized as a National Model by the National Science Teachers Association in NSTA Reports!
- In 1998, selected by the NSRC as a field-test site for STC/MS Human Body Systems middle school unit.
- In 1997, selected as a regional training site for seven new science units developed by the NSRC.
- In 1997, featured as a national model for a successful science program in the book, Science for all Children.
- In 1993, honored as a model Business-Education Partnership by the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts, and Letters.
- In 1992, honored as the best School-Business Partnership in Wisconsin by the Manufacturers and Commerce Association.
For more information on The Einstein Project, please also see GuideStar.org, a resource that gathers and publicizes information about nonprofit organizations for use by donors, funders, researchers, educators, professional service providers, governing agencies, and the media.
Bringing the WONDERS of the world to the fingertips of children . . .
The Einstein Project is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. All contributions are tax deductible.
