This page contains the material submitted to the local paper - The Davis Enterprise - for Explorit Science Center's news column published in that paper on Fridays.

The Intel Foundation has renewed their commitment to support science education in the Sacramento area through unique programs offered by Explorit Science Center.

Intel Foundation's recent grant to Explorit will improve the lives of thousands of children and their parents and teachers through a series of engaging, hands-on student, teacher and family science enrichment programs.

Explorit's executive director Suzanne Ullensvang is quick to note that this is not a one time deal. "Intel's continued support over the years demonstrates their commitment to promoting science literacy," Ullensvang said.

Intel Foundation awarded over $26,000 to Explorit to support a variety of programs on the recommendation of the Intel Folsom facility.

This grant will provide funding for Explorit staff to bring classroom enrichment programs to several schools in the greater Folsom area. Additionally, the grant will be used to develop a pilot teacher partnership program designed to boost elementary teachers' skills and confidence in science instruction.

The grant will also strengthen Explorit's celebrated program, Science in Your World, a family science night program used by over 10,000 students annually in schools in Sacramento, Yolo, Solano, Placer, El Dorado and other counties. Part of the grant will be used to refurbish and supplement microscope and optics activities. Moreover, funding will be provided for Science in Your World programs in the area, including one for the Sacramento Boys and Girls Club.

"It's a great boost to Explorit and an even greater boost to the recipients of our programs," Ullensvang noted.

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Explorit’s Summer Science Classes have been successful and fun learning experiences for scores of area students. These popular classes covering a wide range of science topics are scheduled to continue through August 18.

The enthusiastic response from both students and their parents keeps pouring in. Writes one parent: “My child wanted to go each and every day to both class and the science club. Whatever you’re doing therefore is working!”

A continual complaint from parents, however, is that there are not enough class spaces. The demand for these engaging, hands-on classes remains much higher than the available spaces.

All classes are full except one. There are a few spaces remaining in next week’s class for children ages four and five. The class “The Size is Right!” covers a critical component of basic science discovery... measurement. From volume to distance to weight, children in “The Size is Right!” will cover them all.

The class runs Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. beginning July 31. The cost is $40 per student or $30 for members.

To enroll your child in this class, call Explorit first thing Monday morning at (530) 756-0191. If you are looking ahead to next year, call Explorit if you wish to be placed on the 2001 Summer Science Class mailing list.

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