Mission & History

Einstein Project Founder Dies at 63

The Einstein Project is saddened to learn of the passing of Steven K. Van Dyke, one of the founders of the organization.  Steve, a gifted engineer and scientist and former Chief Executive Officer and later Chairman of the Board of Foth & Van Dyke, died October 11, 2008 following at lengthy illness. He was 63 years old.

"The Einstein Project would not exist today without the vision and commitment of Steven Van Dyke," says Julie Paavola, executive director.  "Nearly 20 years ago Steve provided the resources needed to improve the scientific and intellectual capital in Brown County. Steve and Foth & Van Dyke scientist, David Turiff, began their work, eventually creating The Einstein Project, which now provides more than 85,000 student participations in hands-on minds on learning each year."

Established as a partnership of schools, businesses and the community, Steve's thoughtful design of the organization provides an enduring example of how to impart lasting change.  

We at The Einstein Project mourn the loss of this far-sighted and generous man, and express our deepest condolences to his family and close friends.

Green Bay Press-Gazette obituary.

 

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 41 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 eight to twelve week units contain enough materials for an entire class and are leased to schools for a modest fee.

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 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.

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 4,400 teachers since 1991.

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 Foth 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.

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. 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 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.