Columbus, Ohio, USA
Battelle will support the new PAST Innovation Lab in providing educational programs for underserved youth of Ohio. Battelle’s $300,000 investment increases access for high needs and at risk Central Ohio youth to programs and scholarships provided by the PAST Innovation Lab.
“At Battelle, we are keenly focused on showcasing the promise of STEM to every student,” said Aimee Kennedy. “The potential of the PAST Innovation Lab and the PAST Foundation’s long support of Metro Early College made this partnership a clear next step.”
The PAST Innovation Lab is a prototyping facility, located on Kinnear Road alongside the Ohio State University’s technology corridor. The organization partners with K12 schools, post-secondary institutions, as well as industry and community partners. It provides a platform where new and innovative educational ideas can be imagined, created and tested. The PAST Innovation Lab programs include immersive Learning Labs for third and fourth year high schools students alongside after and out of school informal bridge programs that together accelerates STEM experiences for both students and teachers.
Battelle’s Aimee Kennedy, Vice-President of Education, STEM Learning and Philanthropy, will also join the PAST Foundation Board of Trustees as part of the partnership.
Battelle’s support provides access to these programs for students and teachers who otherwise could not participate via scholarships and expanded program opportunities after school and in the summer.
For 15 years, PAST Foundation has been a leader in designing STEM education for schools across the nation, bringing transdisciplinary problem-based learning to educators and experiential programs to students.
In 2014, PAST was recognized at CGI America by former President Bill Clinton for their outstanding work, and again in 2015 for their achievements in improving education in rural America.
PAST professional development and online courses offer teachers exciting ways to bring problem-based learning to their classrooms. Bridge programs take STEM education out of the classroom for students and teachers. Our Knowledge Capture division supports all PAST endeavors with strong evidence based research. Together we holistically link learning to life.
PAST Innovation Lab is a part of PAST Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization. The Innovation Lab is an educational prototyping facility where community, industry and education come together to create the educational programs of tomorrow, today.
About Battelle
Every day, the people of Battelle apply science and technology to solving what matters most. At major technology centers and national laboratories around the world, Battelle conducts research and development, designs and manufactures products, and delivers critical services for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio since its founding in 1929, Battelle serves the national security, health and life sciences, and energy and environmental industries. For more information, visit www.battelle.org.