Building the Future of Learning,
One Experience at a Time
Who We Are
What started as a question—how can we connect scientific research to classrooms and communities?—has grown into a national hub for educational innovation, partnering with schools, industries, and nonprofits across the country.
Since 2000, PAST Foundation has been designing and delivering real-world learning experiences that prepare students and educators for the future of work.
PAST connects education, business, and community to create hands-on, problem-based learning that is engaging, equitable, and grounded in research. From Microschools and teacher training to student STEM camps and national evaluation projects, we work to ensure learning is meaningful, measurable, and transformative.
Our Mission
By Partnering Anthropology with Science and Technology, we invite the world to design, construct, and engage in experiences that link learning to life.
Our Vision
To join forces with community, industry, and educators, integrating education to encompass transdisciplinary teaching and learning to better reflect relevant real-world experience.
What We Believe
Linking learning to life is more than a tagline. It’s our commitment.
We believe real-world learning equips people of all ages to thrive in their careers, communities, and daily lives. Grounded in research and shaped by hands-on experience, our approach is built to be relevant, equitable, and transformative.
We’re committed to building a future of learning that is inclusive, innovative, and empowering—rooted in equity, guided by evidence, and created in partnership with the communities we serve.
Our DEI Commitment
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential to our mission. We are committed to listening, learning, and taking meaningful action to ensure all learners and educators feel seen, supported, and inspired. This includes amplifying underrepresented voices, designing inclusive learning experiences, and continuously improving our practices to reflect the needs of our communities.
Anthropology + STEM =
Engaged Student Learning
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Our Process
Our model—Anthropology + STEM = Robust Ecosystems of Learning—is the foundation of everything we do.
Our team includes anthropologists, researchers, and educators who understand that schools and communities are complex systems. We believe that meaningful change begins by understanding how those systems function.
Through coaching, consulting, and collaboration, we help schools and partners implement transdisciplinary, problem-based STEM education. Our approach increases teacher engagement, deepens student learning, and strengthens community involvement.
By collaborating with teachers, school leaders, and community partners, we help create learning environments that connect classroom instruction to real-world challenges and prepare students for future careers.
Our Reach
Our work has been honored by the U.S. Department of Education, Forbes, and others.
