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Discover the Innovations in Medicine & Biotechnology Microschool program, offering a free, fast-track path to medical and bioscience careers. Innovations in Medicine & Biotechnology Microschool A Seamless Pathway from High School to Medical Careers The Innovations in Medicine & Biotechnology Microschool, powered by the PAST Foundation, offers high school students an accelerated, cost-free pathway into medical and bioscience careers. Through a unique blend of academic coursework, hands-on clinical experience, and industry-recognized credentials, students graduate ready to thrive in college and the healthcare workforce. Why Choose This Microschool? Integrated Coursework Students earn 14 college credits toward a Medical Laboratory Technology AAS at Columbus State Community College. Thanks to 2+2 transfer agreements, graduates can pursue bachelor’s degrees at institutions like The Ohio State University and the University of Cincinnati. Credentialed and Career-Ready Graduates earn a Clinical Laboratory Assisting Certificate, enabling them to work in lab settings upon high school graduation or while continuing their education. Hands-On Learning Through mentorships and internships with medical professionals, students apply what they learn in real-world clinical and research environments. No Cost to Families Supported through Career Technical Funding and College Credit Plus, the program is designed to reduce or eliminate financial barriers. Stackable Credentials In addition to the Clinical Laboratory Assisting Certificate, students earn additional industry-recognized credentials relevant to multiple healthcare career paths. Specialized Career Counseling Students receive dedicated support in planning their educational and career pathways in the medical field. Program Structure Year A Fall Semester COLS 1101: First Year Experience Seminar Career exploration in healthcare Health simulations & introductory credentials Spring Semester MLT 1100: Basic Concepts in Healthcare BIO 1101: Fundamentals of Human Anatomy & Physiology Workforce development & capstone project Year B Fall Semester MULT 1110: Medical Terminology or HIMT 1274: Medical Reimbursement & Coding PSY 1100: Introduction to Psychology Advanced credentials & career counseling Spring Semester MLT 1112: Laboratory Theory for Health Industries MLT 1113: Laboratory Technique for Health Industries Industry credentials, workforce readiness & final capstone Program Benefits Lower Cost, Higher Value Students graduate high school with credentials and up to 14 college credits—reducing the total cost of a college degree. College-Ready and Career-Certified Students are certified for entry-level positions in medical laboratories, providing income and experience that enhance future opportunities. Equity-Focused Designed to be inclusive and accessible, the program supports students from all backgrounds in pursuing careers in healthcare. Innovation in Action The Microschool acts as a research and development model for new ways to teach, mentor, and prepare students for medical careers. Why It Matters Early, hands-on exposure to the medical field helps students: Build confidence and STEM identity Envision real-world careers Gain critical experience and credentials before college Students graduate not only with a strong academic foundation, but with mentors, networks, and a head start toward a meaningful future in healthcare. Want to bring this program to your school or community? Contact Us

Embedded Electronics and SMART Design Anticipated Time to Credential 60 hours | Cost Estimate: $875 (**Additional costs associated with this course are the responsibility of the student or school district. Costs are related to materials needed to complete weekly and the capstone projects. Weekly projects cost ~$50/weekly project and ~$200 for capstone project.) Building upon fundamental skills, this credential equips learners with an understanding of intelligent systems. Students engage in the design, fabrication, and programming of their own electronic devices, simultaneously documenting workflows and addressing debugging challenges in real-time. Upon successful completion and passing of this course, you will be eligible for the Embedded Systems Design Credential offered by The PAST Foundation’s Innovation FabLab. This credential is endorsed by esteemed industry partners, including The Honda Corporation, Honeywell, SenseIC, and The Fab Foundation. If you are a teacher who has already completed this credential and have access to the necessary equipment you are eligible to have students participate in this credential course. Please contact the PAST Foundation Fab Lab at fablab@pastfoundation.org . Sign Up All Credential Pathway Course Overview Building upon fundamental skills, this credential equips learners with an understanding of intelligent systems. Students engage in the design, fabrication, and programming of their own electronic devices, simultaneously documenting workflows and addressing debugging challenges in real-time. Upon successful completion and passing of this course, you will be eligible for the Embedded Systems Design Credential offered by The PAST Foundation’s Innovation FabLab. This credential is endorsed by esteemed industry partners, including The Honda Corporation, Honeywell, SenseIC, and The Fab Foundation. If you are a teacher who has already completed this credential and have access to the necessary equipment you are eligible to have students participate in this credential course. Please contact the PAST Foundation Fab Lab at fablab@pastfoundation.org . What You'll Explore Performance Indicators Create and Fabricate a Functional PCB : Utilize CAM workflows to design and manufacture a high-performance printed circuit board (PCB). Implement Embedded Programming: Develop embedded programming capabilities to enable interactive systems to function seamlessly. Integrate Sensors and Actuators: Integrate sensors and actuators with custom microcontroller boards to enhance system functionality and data collection capabilities. Generate Design Documentation: Utilize digital tools and reflection protocols to create comprehensive design documentation that accurately represents the PCB design and its functionalities. Key Competencies PCB Design & Fabrication Embedded Systems Programming Input/Output Device Integration Workflow Analysis & Troubleshooting Circuit Debugging and Optimization Technical Documentation & Reflection Skills You'll Learn Electrical CAD and PCB Design Students will design machine components, 3D assemblies, and create custom parts optimized for 3D printing, laser cutting, or CNC milling. Students will design custom PCBs using EDA (Electronic Design Automation) modular electronics. They will also test and document the wiring, pin assignments, and testing procedures to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the devices. Microcontroller integration and debugging Students will apply their knowledge of system integration to design electrical layouts for microcontrollers, motor drivers, batteries, and electronic safety components. Embedded programming fundamentals Students will learn and apply their knowledge of microcontroller architectures (AVR, ARM, Cortex) and memory organization, as well as peripheral capabilities, to practical problems. Students will learn the difference between microcontrollers and microprocessors, and how their designs affect power use and which ones are best for different tasks. Students will acquire data sheet literacy, enabling them to extract essential information for programming and interfacing purposes. Students will utilize Programming Protocols, specifically employing appropriate methods to upload code. Students will utilize programming environments such as the Arduino IDE, MicroPython, and PlatformIO. Students will apply the principles of Interaction and Communication to create a board that is functional, responsive, and effective in communication. Students will apply Debugging and Documentation skills—systematically identifying and resolving code and hardware issues, and recording code, decisions, and outcomes for learning and assessment purposes. Industry Jobs You Can Obtain With This Credential Alignment with the Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model The skills and key competencies found in Embedded Systems and SMART Design course are strongly aligned with the Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model, especially the Electrical/Electronics strand, which focuses on technical competencies for designing, building, analyzing, and documenting electrical systems, PCBs, and embedded devices for manufacturing contexts. Learn More Alignment to Advanced CTE and Credentials Matter The competencies and skills in the Embedded Systems and SMART Design course are strongly aligned with the frameworks and principles of Advanced CTE and Credentials Matter, particularly in areas related to digital technology, electronics, and engineering within Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways. (careertech.org ) Learn More

Discover how PAST Foundation's Research & Evaluation strengthens programs. Explore our research to link learning to life effectively. Research & Evaluation Proven Methodology Every year, our Student Experiences immerse learners in hands-on, real-world challenges that spark curiosity, build confidence, and connect learning to life. Our annual reports showcase the measurable outcomes, inspiring stories, and powerful partnerships behind these programs. Whether you’re an educator, funder, parent, or partner, these reports offer a window into the transformational impact of authentic STEM learning—told through student voices, educator reflections, and data-driven results. Research by the Numbers 20+ years of applied educational research 100+ evaluation projects across schools and organizations 30+ research publications shared nationally 500+ educators and administrations informed Millions of data points analyzed for real-world insight What We Offer PROGRAM EVALUATION Our expert team offers internal and third-party external evaluations that meet the highest standards of transparency, cultural relevance, and rigor. We use mixed-methods approaches that balance the big picture with on-the-ground realities. We help our partners: Define program goals through key interviews Monitor implementation with real-time observations Measure impact with surveys and data analysis Refine strategy with actionable recommendations RESEARCH PARTNERSHIPS We collaborate with districts, nonprofits, universities, and agencies to conduct applied research on topics that matter — from STEM identity formation to school design and systems thinking. We turn insights into action and share what we learn to benefit the field. Explore Our Research PAST Research Publications Explore studies, white papers, and reports from our work across the country. View Publications Problem-Based Learning Publications Dive into scalable models and real-world success stories from our student STEM programs View PBL Publications Research Bibliography Curious about the research behind Learning Unboxed, Hacking School, and more? View Full Bibliography PDF Student Experience Reports Discover annual reports that highlight how our programs shape student learning. View Student Reports Start a Conversation Want to learn more or explore how we can support your project? Use the form below or reach out directly. We’d love to work with you! Reach Out

Lane Fargher Navarro, Ph.D. Director of Research Dr. Lane Fargher Navarro joined the PAST Foundation in 2023 as Director of Research. He comes to PAST after a successful career in academia. Lane received a PhD in anthropology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2004 and completed a postdoc in historical anthropology at Purdue University from 2004 to 2005. He worked as an adjunct instructor at various colleges and universities from 2005-2010, and from 2010-2023 he was a researcher in the Department of Human Ecology at Cinvestav del IPN, in Merida, Mexico. Fargher Navarro’s research experience includes archaeological and historical ecological investigations in Oaxaca, Tlaxcala, and Yucatan, Mexico, as well as SW Ohio; ethnographic and ethnoecological research in Yucatan and Quintana Roo, Mexico; and environmental health and biogeochemistry in Yucatan, Mexico. This research has been funded by the National Science Foundation, National Geographic, FAMSI, Inc., Mexico’s National Council of Science and Technology (Conacyt), and Mexico’s Secretaries of Education and Health. Lane has authored or coauthored a large number of research articles in journals such as Current Anthropology, Journal of Archaeological Science, Frontiers in Political Science, Journal of Anthropological Archaeology , and various book chapters, as well as two books, including Collective Action in the Formation of Premodern States . He is also a member of the Mexican Academy of Sciences. Lane is passionate about promoting an understanding of collective action and its role in good government. Accordingly, he believes that high quality STEM education that cross-cuts social sectors and is available to citizens regardless of geographic origin, gender, sex, ethnicity, and race is fundamental to the maintenance of democracy, individual well-being, and social development. In his free time, Lane enjoys traveling to exotic locals with his fiancée Liliana, spending time with his daughter, Sofía Lillie, bicycling in Columbus’ parks, and playing golf and watching reruns of Seinfeld with his pal Rob (“Serenity Now!!!”).

Pam Andrews Copyeditor Pam’s desire to work in an environment where people are making a difference in education brought her to the PAST foundation. Her twelve years as an educational advocate for families of special needs children highlighted the need for embracing a diverse approach in the classroom. Her fifteen years of administrative experience in communications, data and office management give her the skills to work closely with PAST’s President & CEO and with their Board of Trustees. Pam received her education at The Ohio State University and Hope College in Michigan. Email: pandrews@pastfoundation.org | LinkedIN: @Pam Andrews

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Explore Corporate Social Responsibility at PAST Foundation. Join us in advancing STEM education and enriching student learning through CSR initiatives. Corporate Social Responsibility At PAST Foundation, we forge meaningful partnerships with corporations committed to advancing STEM education, enriching student learning by aligning with local business needs. Through our Workforce Development programming, over 350 students have earned nearly 600 Industry-Recognized Credentials (IRCs). We seek partners eager to shape innovative learning programs, providing high-quality, industry-relevant education and strengthening community ties. Our initiatives focus on students in underserved schools and communities, democratizing access to quality STEM education. Through hands-on projects, we cultivate curiosity and equip young minds with essential 21st-century skills, preparing them for successful STEM careers. Empowering Underserved Communities Verizon Enhancing Digital Literacy and STEM Education Bath & Body Works Exploring the Science of Fragrance Deloitte Security and Human-Centered Design Amazon Web Services Fiber Optic Fusion Splicing Certification IC3D Additive Manufacturing and Real-World Engineering Challenges Ways to Partner Explore opportunities to collaborate with the PAST Foundation in our summer and after-school programs. These initiatives serve 13,000 students annually, with plans to expand to 20,000 students. Your support will help inspire and excite students about STEM through hands-on learning and an industry-relevant curriculum. Informal Programming Partnerships Our summer and after-school programs provide immersive STEM learning experiences for students, distinguished by hands-on learning, an industry-specific curriculum, and diverse subject matter. Our vision is to collaborate with businesses and industries that are eager to actively participate in developing innovative and relevant learning programs. By contributing to innovative program development, this engagement provides a dual benefit: for the students, who gain access to high-quality, industry-relevant education, and for the corporations, who actively contribute to building a skilled and knowledgeable future workforce. Maker Mania: Igniting STEM Interest Join us for Maker Mania sessions throughout the year, where corporations co-create immersive experiences showcasing STEM career fields. These events engage families and students, linking learning to real-world applications. Previous Maker Mania Events Honda Maker Mania +1 Program Focused on Design Thinking, using CAD, 3D printing, Laser Cutting, and Assemblage to introduce STEAM activities to young children and families. Honda R&D sponsored the development of hands-on projects, emphasizing design principles and empowering participants to create innovative products. AT&T Maker Mania Powered by PAST This initiative aimed to bridge the digital divide by promoting digital literacy among communities, students, and families. Participants gained crucial skills and confidence in navigating the digital world. Let’s Work Together Connect with our team to discuss how, together, we can transform education for Ohio’s students. Get Started

PAST Foundation is a nonprofit hub for educational innovation. Discover how we connects students, educators, and partners to the future of education. We connect students, educators, and partners to the future of education through innovation, research, and hands-on programs. What We Do 01 Student Programs Hands-on, future-focused experiences that connect students to STEM careers, real-world problem-solving, and their own potential. Explore 02 Professional Learning Customized professional development and coaching for educators, administrators, and district leaders to reimagine teaching and learning. Explore 03 Research & Evaluation Applied research and program evaluation rooted in data, design thinking, and human-centered learning. Explore 04 Workforce Development We connect industry to K-12 for student career awareness and employee engagement opportunities. Explore Real-World Impact in Numbers Our Reach From classrooms to communities, our work impacts learners of all ages. PAST connects students, educators, and partners with hands-on experiences that spark curiosity, build skills, and drive meaningful change. See Our Impact in Action 3.2+ million students impacted 24,000+ educators engaged 500+ industry and community partners 1,000+ districts influenced 596 programs at 120+ locations ÁjgqÎ|QWERTYqwerty PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ We’re reimagining what learning looks like. PAST Foundation is a nonprofit hub for educational innovation. We partner with schools, communities, and industries to design and deliver programs that prepare learners of all ages for the future of work. Through research, professional development, student experiences, and system-level consulting, we help make learning meaningful, measurable, and lasting. Learn More What People Are Saying Across the country, educators, students, and partners are seeing the difference real-world learning can make. Here’s what a few of them had to say about working with the PAST Foundation: The work that PAST Foundation does in the field of innovative education is truly remarkable. Upon first visiting PAST, we were immediately energized by seeing the facility, meeting the staff and the students.” — John White, Principal of Deloitte Consulting LLP What People Are Saying Across the country, educators, students, and partners are seeing the difference real-world learning can make. Here’s what a few of them had to say about working with the PAST Foundation: We are so fortunate to have a partner like the PAST Foundation who understands as we do the importance of hands-on, real-world, problem-based learning.” — Steve Foreman, MEd, Assistant Superintendent, Zanesville City Schools. What People Are Saying Across the country, educators, students, and partners are seeing the difference real-world learning can make. Here’s what a few of them had to say about working with the PAST Foundation: Everything has been great. Your staff is amazing. The classes are well organized and the right level of difficulty without being too overwhelming” — Summer STEM Experience 2025 Parent Join Us at an Upcoming Event From hands-on student camps to educator workshops, we’re bringing real-world learning to life all year long. Wed, May 13 From Vision to Evidence: A Deep Dive into Ohio’s STEM/STEAM Designation Rubric and Ohio Quality Model / A 3-Part Webinar Series Details May 13, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM A 3-Part Webinar Series Join the PAST Foundation, the Central Ohio STEM Hub for the Ohio STEM Learning Network, as we embark on a three part webinar series to dive deeper into understanding the Ohio’s STEM/STEAM Designation Rubric and the Ohio Quality Model for STEM/STEAM Education. Wed, Mar 18 OSLN Spring into STEM 2026: Tour Tree of Life Elementary Polaris Campus / Tree of Life Elementary - Polaris Campus Details Mar 18, 2026, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Tree of Life Elementary - Polaris Campus, 2150 E Powell Rd, Columbus, OH 43240, USA The Ohio STEM Learning Network, Tree of Life Elementary - Polaris, and The PAST Foundation are collaborating for a site visit at a premier STEM School in Central, Ohio. Our Work is Powered by Collaboration We’re proud and grateful to partner with forward-thinking funders, school districts, and industry leaders who believe in transforming education through action. Explore Tools & Stories That Inspire We share what we’ve learned so others can build what’s next. Dive into our collection of resources, stories, and tools. View All Resources Learning Unboxed Podcast Portable Innovation Labs Hacking School Online Courses Ready to Link Learning to Life? We believe real-world learning empowers people of all ages to thrive in life, work, and community. Our evidence-based, hands-on approach builds an inclusive, equitable, and innovative future of learning. Join the PAST Team Contact Us Donate Join Our Newsletter

Discover how to invest in the future of learning. Support PAST's mission to transform education and prepare students for real-world success. Invest in the Future of Learning Real-world learning. Lasting community impact. We connect students, educators, and partners to the future of education through innovation, research, and hands-on programs. Donate Now Why Give to PAST? For over 20 years, we’ve helped reimagine education through hands-on programs, research and development, and strategic partnerships that prepare students for real-world success. With your help, we can: Provide scholarships and hands-on learning for students Train educators to teach with purpose, creativity, and relevance Expand access to STEM programs in underserved communities Sustain and grow innovative spaces like the PAST Innovation Lab Honor legacies that continue to shape our mission Ways to Give One-Time Gift or Monthly Support Make a gift that fits your budget and your values. You can choose to give now, set up monthly donations, or become an annual sustaining partner. Honor Someone Special Celebrate a mentor, student, or loved one with a gift in their memory or name. We currently honor: Chad Raymond Memorial Scholarship Beverly Ann Erwin “Bev’s Garden” Support a Program You Care About Select a focus area that matches your passion: Student Programs Support after-school opportunities, summer learning, and scholarships that help students grow confidence and career-ready skills. Girls Who Lead Help empower young women to pursue and lead in STEM fields. STEM Professional Development Provide teachers and school leaders with tools and training that make learning meaningful and future-focused. PAST Innovation Lab Support our one-of-a-kind educational R&D lab where students, educators, and industry come together to create the future of learning. STEM Action Center Advance regional collaboration and programming that brings STEM to life in Ohio schools. Bev’s Garden Contribute to the care and growth of this living memorial and outdoor learning space. Want to Do More? There are many ways to support our work beyond a financial donation. Donate Time or Expertise Mentor a student, support a project, or lend your professional skills. Give In-Kind Resources From equipment to curriculum materials, in-kind gifts help us serve more students with greater impact. Partner on a Project Have an idea for collaboration? We’re always open to new ways to connect. Let us know what you’re thinking. Contact Us Donate Now Make Your Gift Today Join us in building the future of education—one student, one idea, one program at a time.

Discover how Metrobots, a leading high school robotics team, excels in design and competition. Join Metrobots and explore their innovative journey! Metrobots Metrobots are more than a robotics team. They're a hands-on training ground for problem-solvers, innovators, and future engineers. The Metrobots are a high school robotics team that designs, builds, and competes as part of the global FIRST Robotics Competition . Based at the PAST Innovation Lab in Columbus, Ohio, the team combines technical skill with collaboration and creativity to solve real-world engineering challenges. What Sets Metrobots Apart Powered by PAST PAST is the proud hosting sponsor and fiscal agent of the team, providing equipment, mentors, and lab access. Proven Performance The Metrobots have earned a reputation for excellence — competing at the FIRST World Championship and bringing home awards for innovation, impact, and leadership. Community Impact From mentoring other teams to leading engineering workshops across Ohio, Metrobots are committed to giving back and helping grow the next generation of STEM talent. Want to Help Make More of This Possible? Every recognition is the result of partnership. If you’re interested in supporting our work or becoming a funding partner, we’d love to hear from you! Partner with Us Make a Donation Timeline of Achievements 2024: Regional Finalists – Buckeye Regional 2023: Outreach Expansion – 10+ statewide community events 2022: Regional Chairman’s Award – Miami Valley 2017: Engineering Inspiration Award – FIRST World Championship 2015–2018: Qualified for World Championships Want to Get Involved? Whether you're a parent, a sponsor, or a future Metrobot, there are many ways to be part of the team. Donate to PAST Foundation Become a Partner

Discover how Columbus EcosySTEM transforms K–12 education with innovative learning experiences. Learn more about Columbus EcosySTEM today! Columbus EcosySTEM Transforming K–12 Education for the Future What is Columbus EcosySTEM? Columbus EcosySTEM is a bold new approach to K–12 education that reimagines how and where learning happens. Designed in collaboration with PAST Foundation, 100 Roads , and Education Reimagined , this initiative builds a community-based network of learning hubs and virtual home bases—connecting students directly to real-world learning in their neighborhoods. Community Centered Learning Learning doesn't stop at school walls. Our approach uses a flexible network of learning hubs, field sites, and virtual home bases that embed learning directly into neighborhoods and communities. It’s an endeavor to fundamentally change what K–12 teaching and learning looks like in central Ohio. Fresh Vision for Education We’re redefining education by breaking free from traditional classrooms. Learning is now woven into our communities through a network of hubs, field sites, and innovative “home bases”. These virtual “home bases” serve as anchors for learners, advisors, and educators, connecting them directly with education in their neighborhoods. Student Fulfillment and Belonging Our main mission is designed to nurture a sense of fulfillment, purpose, and belonging among learners. This innovative approach ensures that young people discover their role within the growing community, seize opportunities as local businesses flourish, and gain a deep understanding of how they can contribute. Join the Movement We've already welcomed nearly 100 students into this groundbreaking ecosystem! Education Reimagined is partnering with communities nationwide to lay the groundwork for similar initiatives, creating a powerful learning experience for students. Contact Us About PAST Foundation We're a non-profit organization leading innovative educational opportunities worldwide. With 20+ years of experience, we've impacted countless students and educators, and engaged with numerous businesses and industry leaders. Our mission is to create a community of learners, empowering students to tackle global challenges. PAST has received recognition from the U.S. Department of Education, been featured in Forbes Magazine, and acknowledged by the White House Summit on High School Design!

Discover free, virtual STEM learning with STEM Streaming from the PAST Foundation. Perfect for classrooms or at-home learning. Explore STEM Streaming now! STEM Streaming Your hub for free, virtual STEM learning experiences Whether you're teaching from a classroom, a living room, or anywhere in between, these resources are designed to support creativity, problem-solving, and real-world learning at every level. Learning Unboxed Podcast Hosted by PAST Founder and CEO Annalies Corbin, this podcast explores the future of teaching, learning, and workforce development. Tune in for conversations that challenge assumptions and spark new ideas. Listen to the Podcast STEM Activities at Home Explore our growing library of downloadable STEM design challenges, perfect for at-home learning, classrooms, libraries, and more. Activities are designed to be accessible, engaging, and adaptable across grade levels. Browse Activities Webinars for Educators Check out a list of our upcoming webinars, previously recorded webinars, and register to attend our Teacher Chat Thursday! Webinars for Educators Curated External Resources We’ve gathered additional free STEM resources to extend your learning, including: Women in Computer Science Columbia Engineering’s Coding Resources for Women Online Class Tips and Tools Simple STEM Activities to do at Home Explore More STEM Resources Want more STEM ideas, tools, and inspiration? Check out our other virtual resources or get in touch with our team. Browse All Virtual Resources Connect with the PAST Team