California Academy of Sciences

The California Academy of Sciences will expand their youth program, Teen Advocates for Science Communication, which will continue to serve as a vehicle for visitor engagement. Museum staff will guide and train volunteer youth in grades 8-12 to create their own public programs for the Academy's museum, helping to serve 1.3 million visitors annually. The museum will grow the program by increasing participation to more than 190 teens annually; developing programming that aligns with planned exhibits, planetarium shows, and overarching initiatives; and exploring STEAM concepts through partnerships with art organizations and participation in relevant outreach events. Through participation in the program, youth will have an increased knowledge of, involvement with, and appreciation for science; will exhibit enthusiasm for science learning and communication; and will demonstrate an increase in 21st-century skills, such as leadership, program research and design, evaluation, critical thinking, and teamwork.