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Discover transformative Professional Learning Experiences designed for educators. Explore our programs for impactful professional growth today! Professional Learning Experiences Empowering Educators, Leaders & Professionals to Transform Learning We believe educators and professionals deserve more than just training, they deserve transformation. That’s why we design professional learning experiences that are collaborative, customizable, and rooted in solving real-world problems. Whether you’re an educator, school leader, or industry partner, our programs equip you to lead meaningful change. From immersive PD to online courses, mentorship development to system-wide coaching, we help professionals rethink how learning happens, so they can inspire the next generation. Explore Our Programs Online Courses Flexible, accessible, and designed with your goals in mind. Explore foundational theory, design, and practice in topics ranging from STEM integration to systems thinking. Learn More Immersive Professional Development Experience deep, hands-on learning alongside students and content experts. These topic-driven, hybrid sessions include virtual preparation followed by in-person collaboration and innovation. Learn More Central Ohio STEM Action Center Connecting educators, community partners, and STEM leaders to accelerate regional innovation. As the Central Ohio Hub of the Ohio STEM Learning Network, we support collaboration, share resources, and scale impactful STEM programs across the region. Learn More On-Site Professional Development We partner directly with schools, districts, and organizations to design and deliver tailored training that aligns community goals with instructional strategies. Learn More Frequently Asked Questions Who can participate in PAST’s professional learning programs? Our offerings are designed for K–12 educators, administrators, instructional coaches, and industry professionals involved in education or workforce development. How are programs delivered? We offer a mix of formats—online courses, in-person workshops, and hybrid experiences. Each one is tailored to your needs and learning goals. Can we bring PAST professional learning to our district or organization? Absolutely. We specialize in custom-designed engagements that align with your goals. Start by reaching out through the contact form below. What topics are covered in immersive professional development? Topics change regularly and are always aligned with real-world challenges. Past sessions have included robotics, Minecraft in education, Art & STEM, agricultural engineering, and more. Is mentorship training only for teachers? Not at all! Our mentorship course is ideal for any professional working with students—industry mentors, volunteers, or after-school providers. Stay Connected Whether you're looking for coaching, collaboration, or curriculum support, we’re here to help you bring learning to life. Contact Us View Upcoming Events Join Our Newsletter Volunteer With Us

Privacy Policy PAST Foundation Privacy Policy This Application collects some Personal Data from its Users. This document can be printed for reference by using the print command in the settings of any browser. Owner and Data Controller PAST Foundation 1003 Kinnear Road, Columbus, Ohio 43212 Owner contact email: info@pastinnovationlab.org Types of Data collected Among the types of Personal Data that this Application collects, by itself or through third parties, there are: first name; last name; phone number; email address; Usage Data; profession; Cookies. Complete details on each type of Personal Data collected are provided in the dedicated sections of this privacy policy or by specific explanation texts displayed prior to the Data collection.Personal Data may be freely provided by the User, or, in case of Usage Data, collected automatically when using this Application. Unless specified otherwise, all Data requested by this Application is mandatory and failure to provide this Data may make it impossible for this Application to provide its services. In cases where this Application specifically states that some Data is not mandatory, Users are free not to communicate this Data without consequences to the availability or the functioning of the Service. Users who are uncertain about which Personal Data is mandatory are welcome to contact the Owner.Any use of Cookies – or of other tracking tools – by this Application or by the owners of third-party services used by this Application serves the purpose of providing the Service required by the User, in addition to any other purposes described in the present document and in the Cookie Policy, if available. Users are responsible for any third-party Personal Data obtained, published or shared through this Application and confirm that they have the third party’s consent to provide the Data to the Owner. Information we collect from Children The PAST Foundation website and services are not intended for use by children and we do not actively collect personal information from children. The PAST Foundation owns and operates a white-labeled version of WorkAdventu.re, a platform for students, teachers, mentors, and workforce professionals to meet and engage under supervision, in an online virtual environment. For more information on the collection and use practices of our WorkAdventure product, please visit WorkAdventure privacy policy . If you are a parent, teacher or student and have questions about our collection and use of personal information in relation to children, please contact us at info@pastfoundation.org . Mode and place of processing the Data Methods of processing The Owner takes appropriate security measures to prevent unauthorized access, disclosure, modification, or unauthorized destruction of the Data. The Data processing is carried out using computers and/or IT enabled tools, following organizational procedures and modes strictly related to the purposes indicated. In addition to the Owner, in some cases, the Data may be accessible to certain types of persons in charge, involved with the operation of this Application (administration, sales, marketing, legal, system administration) or external parties (such as third-party technical service providers, mail carriers, hosting providers, IT companies, communications agencies) appointed, if necessary, as Data Processors by the Owner. The updated list of these parties may be requested from the Owner at any time. Legal basis of processing The Owner may process Personal Data relating to Users if one of the following applies: Users have given their consent for one or more specific purposes. Note: Under some legislations the Owner may be allowed to process Personal Data until the User objects to such processing (“opt-out”), without having to rely on consent or any other of the following legal bases. This, however, does not apply, whenever the processing of Personal Data is subject to European data protection law; provision of Data is necessary for the performance of an agreement with the User and/or for any pre-contractual obligations thereof; processing is necessary for compliance with a legal obligation to which the Owner is subject; processing is related to a task that is carried out in the public interest or in the exercise of official authority vested in the Owner; processing is necessary for the purposes of the legitimate interests pursued by the Owner or by a third party. In any case, the Owner will gladly help to clarify the specific legal basis that applies to the processing, and in particular whether the provision of Personal Data is a statutory or contractual requirement, or a requirement necessary to enter into a contract. Place The Data is processed at the Owner’s operating offices and in any other places where the parties involved in the processing are located.Depending on the User’s location, data transfers may involve transferring the User’s Data to a country other than their own. To find out more about the place of processing of such transferred Data, Users can check the section containing details about the processing of Personal Data. Users are also entitled to learn about the legal basis of Data transfers to a country outside the European Union or to any international organization governed by public international law or set up by two or more countries, such as the UN, and about the security measures taken by the Owner to safeguard their Data.If any such transfer takes place, Users can find out more by checking the relevant sections of this document or inquire with the Owner using the information provided in the contact section. Retention time Personal Data shall be processed and stored for as long as required by the purpose they have been collected for. Therefore: Personal Data collected for purposes related to the performance of a contract between the Owner and the User shall be retained until such contract has been fully performed. Personal Data collected for the purposes of the Owner’s legitimate interests shall be retained as long as needed to fulfill such purposes. Users may find specific information regarding the legitimate interests pursued by the Owner within the relevant sections of this document or by contacting the Owner. The Owner may be allowed to retain Personal Data for a longer period whenever the User has given consent to such processing, as long as such consent is not withdrawn. Furthermore, the Owner may be obliged to retain Personal Data for a longer period whenever required to do so for the performance of a legal obligation or upon order of an authority.Once the retention period expires, Personal Data shall be deleted. Therefore, the right of access, the right to erasure, the right to rectification and the right to data portability cannot be enforced after expiration of the retention period. The purposes of processing The Data concerning the User is collected to allow the Owner to provide its Service, comply with its legal obligations, respond to enforcement requests, protect its rights and interests (or those of its Users or third parties), detect any malicious or fraudulent activity, as well as the following: Contacting the User, Analytics, User database management, Managing contacts and sending messages, Heat mapping and session recording and Handling payments. For specific information about the Personal Data used for each purpose, the User may refer to the section “Detailed information on the processing of Personal Data”. Detailed information on the processing of Personal Data Personal Data is collected for the following purposes and using the following services: Analytics The services contained in this section enable the Owner to monitor and analyze web traffic and can be used to keep track of User behavior. HubSpot Analytics (HubSpot, Inc.) HubSpot Analytics is an analytics service provided by HubSpot, Inc.Personal Data processed: Cookies; Usage Data. Place of processing: United States – Privacy Policy – Opt Out Google Analytics (Google Inc.) Google Analytics is a web analysis service provided by Google Inc. (“Google”). Google utilizes the Data collected to track and examine the use of this Application, to prepare reports on its activities and share them with other Google services. Google may use the Data collected to contextualize and personalize the ads of its own advertising network. Personal Data processed: Cookies; Usage Data. Place of processing: United States – Privacy Policy – Opt Out Contacting the User Contact form (this Application) By filling in the contact form with their Data, the User authorizes this Application to use these details to reply to requests for information, quotes or any other kind of request as indicated by the form’s header. Personal Data processed: email address; first name; last name; phone number. Mailing list or newsletter (this Application) By registering on the mailing list or for the newsletter, the User’s email address will be added to the contact list of those who may receive email messages containing information of commercial or promotional nature concerning this Application. Your email address might also be added to this list as a result of signing up to this Application or after making a purchase. Personal Data processed: email address; profession; Usage Data. Handling Payments Payment processing services enable this Application to process payments by credit card, bank transfer or other means. To ensure greater security, this Application shares only the information necessary to execute the transaction with the financial intermediaries handling the transaction.Some of these services may also enable the sending of timed messages to the User, such as emails containing invoices or notifications concerning the payment. Authorize.Net (Authorize.Net) Authorize.Net is a payment service provided by Authorize.Net. Personal Data processed: various types of Data as specified in the privacy policy of the service. Place of processing: United States – Privacy Policy . Heat mapping and session recording Heat mapping services are used to display the areas of a page where Users most frequently move the mouse or click. This shows where the points of interest are. These services make it possible to monitor and analyze web traffic and keep track of User behavior. Some of these services may record sessions and make them available for later visual playback. Hotjar Heat Maps & Recordings (Hotjar Ltd.) Hotjar is a session recording and heat mapping service provided by Hotjar Ltd.Hotjar honors generic „Do Not Track” headers. This means the browser can tell its script not to collect any of the User’s data. This is a setting that is available in all major browsers. Find Hotjar’s opt-out information here . Personal Data processed: Cookies; Usage Data; various types of Data as specified in the privacy policy of the service. Place of processing: Malta – Privacy Policy – Opt Out . Managing contacts and sending messages This type of service makes it possible to manage a database of email contacts, phone contacts or any other contact information to communicate with the User. These services may also collect data concerning the date and time when the message was viewed by the User, as well as when the User interacted with it, such as by clicking on links included in the message. HubSpot Email (HubSpot, Inc.) HubSpot Email is an email address management and message sending service provided by HubSpot, Inc. Personal Data processed: email address; Usage Data. Place of processing: United States – Privacy Policy . User Database Management This type of service allows the Owner to build user profiles by starting from an email address, a personal name, or other information that the User provides to this Application, as well as to track User activities through analytics features. This Personal Data may also be matched with publicly available information about the User (such as social networks’ profiles) and used to build private profiles that the Owner can display and use for improving this Application. Some of these services may also enable the sending of timed messages to the User, such as emails based on specific actions performed on this Application. HubSpot CRM (HubSpot, Inc.) HubSpot CRM is a User database management service provided by HubSpot, Inc. Personal Data processed: email address; phone number; various types of Data as specified in the privacy policy of the service. Place of processing: United States – Privacy Policy . HubSpot Lead Management (HubSpot, Inc.) HubSpot Lead Management is a User database management service provided by HubSpot, Inc. Personal Data processed: various types of Data as specified in the privacy policy of the service. Place of processing: United States – Privacy Policy . The rights of Users Users may exercise certain rights regarding their Data processed by the Owner. In particular, Users have the right to do the following: Withdraw their consent at any time. Users have the right to withdraw consent where they have previously given their consent to the processing of their Personal Data. Object to processing of their Data. Users have the right to object to the processing of their Data if the processing is carried out on a legal basis other than consent. Further details are provided in the dedicated section below. Access their Data. Users have the right to learn if Data is being processed by the Owner, obtain disclosure regarding certain aspects of the processing and obtain a copy of the Data undergoing processing. Verify and seek rectification. Users have the right to verify the accuracy of their Data and ask for it to be updated or corrected. Restrict the processing of their Data. Users have the right, under certain circumstances, to restrict the processing of their Data. In this case, the Owner will not process their Data for any purpose other than storing it. Have their Personal Data deleted or otherwise removed. Users have the right, under certain circumstances, to obtain the erasure of their Data from the Owner. Receive their Data and have it transferred to another controller. Users have the right to receive their Data in a structured, commonly used and machine readable format and, if technically feasible, to have it transmitted to another controller without any hindrance. This provision is applicable provided that the Data is processed by automated means and that the processing is based on the User’s consent, on a contract which the User is part of or on pre-contractual obligations thereof. Lodge a complaint. Users have the right to bring a claim before their competent data protection authority. Details about the right to object to processing Where Personal Data is processed for a public interest, in the exercise of an official authority vested in the Owner or for the purposes of the legitimate interests pursued by the Owner, Users may object to such processing by providing a ground related to their particular situation to justify the objection. Users must know that, however, should their Personal Data be processed for direct marketing purposes, they can object to that processing at any time without providing any justification. To learn, whether the Owner is processing Personal Data for direct marketing purposes, Users may refer to the relevant sections of this document. How to exercise these rights Any requests to exercise User rights can be directed to the Owner through the contact details provided in this document. These requests can be exercised free of charge and will be addressed by the Owner as early as possible and always within one month. Cookie policy This Application uses Trackers. To learn more, the User may consult the Cookie Policy . Additional information about Data collection and processing Legal action The User’s Personal Data may be used for legal purposes by the Owner in Court or in the stages leading to possible legal action arising from improper use of this Application or the related Services.The User declares to be aware that the Owner may be required to reveal personal data upon request of public authorities. Additional information about User’s Personal Data In addition to the information contained in this privacy policy, this Application may provide the User with additional and contextual information concerning particular Services or the collection and processing of Personal Data upon request. System logs and maintenance For operation and maintenance purposes, this Application and any third-party services may collect files that record interaction with this Application (System logs) use other Personal Data (such as the IP Address) for this purpose. Information not contained in this policy More details concerning the collection or processing of Personal Data may be requested from the Owner at any time. Please see the contact information at the beginning of this document. How “Do Not Track” requests are handled This Application does not support “Do Not Track” requests.To determine whether any of the third-party services it uses honor the “Do Not Track” requests, please read their privacy policies. Changes to this privacy policy The Owner reserves the right to make changes to this privacy policy at any time by notifying its Users on this page and possibly within this Application and/or – as far as technically and legally feasible – sending a notice to Users via any contact information available to the Owner. It is strongly recommended to check this page often, referring to the date of the last modification listed at the bottom.Should the changes affect processing activities performed on the basis of the User’s consent, the Owner shall collect new consent from the User, where required.

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

Explore Workforce Development at PAST Foundation. Discover key components to power up your potential with our Workforce Development programs. Workforce Development Preparing Students—and Educators—for the Future of Work At PAST Foundation, we offer a range of opportunities for Students, Educators, Administrators, and Community Partners through our Workforce Development Programs. These initiatives directly address the need for enhanced STEM educational experiences beyond the classroom, foster a more diverse STEM pipeline, and prepare a workforce ready for future challenges. Our workforce development initiatives are driven by a commitment to empower educators, students, and communities. By fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and lifelong learning, PAST prepares the workforce of tomorrow to excel in an ever-evolving world. What We Offer 01 For Students Hands-on learning, mentorship, and industry credentials that build confidence and open doors. Explore 02 For Educators Credentialed training, coaching, and classroom-ready tools to prepare students for STEM careers. Explore 03 For Industry & Community Partners Strategic partnerships that invest in students and meet future workforce needs. Explore “Power Up Your Potential” This initiative ignites students’ passion for STEM careers and equips them with technical competencies and essential soft skills to thrive in the workforce. Students explore STEM disciplines, collaborate with industry professionals, and solve real-world challenges. The program emphasizes collaboration and problem-solving. By partnering closely with industry leaders and mentors, students gain invaluable insights and experiences that shape their future pathways. 500+ Students Participated 850+ Industry Certifications Key Components to Power Up Your Potential Career Exploration & Awareness Real-world problem-solving introduces students to diverse STEM paths. Integration: Student agency and cultural relevance make exploration personal and purposeful. Problem-Based Learning Applying STEM principles to solve real-world problems, fostering critical thinking and creativity. Integration: Learning is grounded in real issues that matter to students and their communities. Industry Partnerships Collaborating with 500+ business and industry partners to provide mentorship, internships, and job shadowing opportunities. Integration: Partnerships reflect transdisciplinary learning and real workforce needs. Immersive Experiences Students combine virtual and hands-on learning in engaging, memorable ways. Integration: Use gamification and culturally relevant pedagogy, such as Hip-hop culture, to make immersive experiences more relatable and engaging. Future-Focused Skill Development From early awareness to internships, students build essential skills at every stage. Integration: Mastery-based learning supports growth mindset and real competency. Credentials That Matter Students earn industry-recognized certifications that validate their knowledge. Integration: Use a mastery-based approach to credentialing, ensuring students demonstrate true understanding and capability. Support Systems Mentoring, coaching, and tutoring help remove academic and personal barriers. Integration: Supportive environments foster agency and confidence. Community Impact Student-led passion projects and community service to apply learning in meaningful ways. Integration: Use place-based education and community partnerships to make learning relevant and impactful for students and their communities. For Educators Workforce Credential Training STEM Educator Workforce Collaborative We equip teachers with the tools, industry-recognized credentials (IRCs), and coaching to deliver impactful, culturally relevant STEM instruction. Program Highlights: 375+ educators trained across 32 counties Mastery-based credentialing and career-aligned training Authentic, project-based learning approaches Impacting Over 125,000+ Students Train with Us For Partners Build the Workforce of Tomorrow We’ve partnered with 500+ industry leaders to co-create programs that reflect the needs of today’s employers and tomorrow’s innovators. These partnerships enhance education and contribute positively to the community by bridging the gap between education and career opportunities. Students gain skills, knowledge, and networks vital for success in today's workforce. How You Can Get Involved: Host interns or job shadowing opportunities Serve as a project mentor Support program development or credential access Launch a custom workforce initiative with PAST Learn more about Corporate Social Responsibility or contact us. Learn More Contact Us Why It Matters Our Workforce Development programs address local workforce gaps by Promoting equity and access to high-quality STEM learning Supporting skill development tied to in-demand jobs Creating reciprocal pipelines between education and industry Creating reciprocal pipelines between education and industry

Explore PAST in Action, a living gallery showcasing our impactful work with students, educators, and communities. Discover PAST in Action now! PAST in Action Bringing Real-World Learning to Life. PAST in Action is a living gallery of the work we do in partnership with students, educators, and communities across the country. From school districts reimagining instruction to students launching into STEM careers, this is where our mission becomes reality. Our Impact These numbers represent more than metrics—they reflect lives changed, systems improved, and futures reimagined. 3.2 million+ students served 24,000+ educators engaged 600+ programs launched 500+ business and industry partners 120+ program locations nationwide Explore the Work Case Studies Deep dives into how schools and districts are using PAST’s methods to shift culture, boost engagement, and link learning to life. View Case Studies Research in Action Learn how our research-backed models are tested and refined in real environments. Visit the Research Page Success Stories Quick wins and powerful journeys of how students, teachers, and partners are making meaningful change with PAST. Explore Stories Student Experience Reports Annual overviews of our student programs, highlighting participation, outcomes, and insights that shape future offerings. These reports capture both data and student voice. Explore Reports PAST in Action Using A Real Problem to Teach Math...of All Things! In Ms. Baker’s Algebra 3 class at eSTEM last month, students learned about quadratic equations. However, instead of simply drilling through a plethora of problem sets, students addressed the problem, “How can we boost the Wi-Fi hotspot on Ms. Baker’s phone?” Ms. Baker has shared her own passion for gaming with her students, including her accounts of playing the recently popular game Pokémon Go with her own children. If her kids were sharing the Wi-Fi on her phone between their own hand-held devices, how could they enhance their experience of playing the game together? Read More The Hybrid Teacher Model In 2015, South Dakota Innovation Lab (SDIL) was awarded a Bush South Dakota Community Foundation grant for the purpose of piloting a Hybrid teaching system that incorporates technology and prototypes a model for integrating content and problem-based instructional strategies alongside hybrid delivery for pre-service teachers. The proposal comes from a five year quest to address several critical issues facing education in rural America. Read More Part 1: Planning of the Peace Project at Herbert Mills Elementary in Reynoldsburg, OH PAST works with schools to help build and support a culture that engages students in authentic problem-solving within their schools and community. As thinking partners for the Herbert Mills STEM Elementary team, we brainstormed how students might answer the question, “How can we promote peace among ourselves, our school, and our community?” Students and teachers articulate the problem-solving process by using The Herbert Mills Engineering Design Process (pictured on right). Our teaching teams also engage in design thinking and the design process in their own curriculum planning. Read More Students Explore Space with NASA and TPBL At STEM Middle at Baldwin Road Junior High in Reynoldsburg, OH, teachers used a NASA-funded grant to plan and implement space exploration-themed activities with students. PAST Foundation was there to support the work, and capture the fun! Read More Community Partners, Engaging Problems, Student Solutions...Oh My! Angela Forino is a 3rd Grade educator at Herbert Mills Elementary School in Reynoldsburg, OH and has a goal this year: get her students designing solutions for their community. And, she is accomplishing this goal everyday by reaching out to partners in the community to connect her students with. Read More An Anthropological Perspective: Foundational Strategies of Education Today’s communities must examine the particulars of instruction and delivery so that they are aligned with how industries and networks function in the 21st century. As teachers shift to being guides in instruction and learning environments become portals of knowledge exploration that combine experience and authentic problem-solving, the particulars of instructional and delivery strategies will align with the cultural strategies defining literacy. Read More Video Games in the Classroom, Really? A sixth grade student sits staring intensely in front of his laptop, fervently clicking his mouse to place sandstone blocks in the popular video game Minecraft. As the teacher moves behind him to view his screen, he tells her that after scaling his pyramid to half size, the structure was still way too big, but scaling to quarter size was too small and wouldn’t “look cool.” Should he scale the model to one-third size? He would have to round to a nearest whole number, but that was okay, right? The teacher asks him to explain how he would divide and round the various dimensions of the pyramid, and the student responds by quickly typing on his calculator and scribbling a few numbers on a sheet of paper, before reporting his idea. Read More Problem-Based Learning with Birds! Kindergarten students typically hear or see a bird and yet often remain oblivious to the sounds of nature surrounding them. Kelly Preheim’s kindergarten class in Armour, SD not only pays attention, but can name birds by sound and sight—over 300 of them! Read More Inquisitive Brains Bring the 2nd Annual Health Fair to (HS)2 Reynoldsburg, OH Walking through the school’s halls towards the southeast end of the building, a dull hum grows into a vibrant buzz, percolating with shouts of excitement and calls to friends. Through the corridors and into the school’s Field House, the buzz becomes a warble of enthusiasm and alacrity as students, siblings, teachers, and parents bustle to and from various tables, examining brochures, models, and interactive devices. Student projects tower on some tables, while other tables host local health-related businesses and organizations. Read More Conversational Mathematics In 2009 Paul Lockhart declared that mathematics is a form of art. He argues that mathematics as rote procedures and contrived applications destroys the natural curiosity of children. Mathematics as a memorization game, diminishes the inherent beauty in mathematics, and completely overlooks the fact that mathematics is a form of art. We agree with Lockhart and push the argument one step further: beyond being a game, beyond being an art form, mathematics is one of only five non verbal languages. Mathematics like Music, American Sign Language, Morse Code, and Signaling use symbols arranged in varying sequences to convey information. All are taught in formal education courses. But unlike the other non-verbal languages, many mathematics classes are taught with the removal of application, which returns us to Lockhart’s lament, that with the abstraction of mathematics there is a loss in appreciation of both the beauty and application. Read More Transforming Spaces and Practice From the outside, Baldwin STEM Middle School resembles a typical school. However, as you walk into the school, you immediately recognize this is not a traditional school. The numerous decisions the team and students have made to showcase the students’ STEM experience at the middle level is evident throughout the building. This transformation began with reimagining the traditional library to become a space the staff and students now call The Foundry. This redefined space was catalyzed by an idea to provide middle school students an opportunity to learn within a maker space. A lead teacher for Baldwin, Sandy Guinto, envisioned an opportunity to build a math course that would utilize the maker space tools and build a pipeline for students to transition into the high school level Fab Lab. Her course “The Art of Math,” students have an opportunity to learn and reinforce math content standards through the lens of design and art. Read More Constraints and Pitfalls Encountered in Crossing the Threshold to Transdisciplinary Problem-Based Learning This report focuses on the constraints and pitfalls teachers face when transitioning from traditional learning strategies to transdisciplinary problem-based learning (TPBL). In educational theory these thresholds are associated with culture shifts and new demands on educational strategies that meet changing societal needs. Both the approach to change and the time following are charged with liminal constraints that must be navigated and pitfalls that test confidence. Partnering with administrators, teachers, students and community to navigate constraints and build confidence is the focus of the PAST Foundation. PAST uses an array of methodologies to better understand perceptions and inform actionable pathways so that the transitions are successful. Read More Part 2: Sharing of the Peace Project at Herbert Mills STEM Elementary in Reynoldsburg, OH On a warm day in Spring before lunch, students gathered in the school’s community garden for The Peace Project Reveal to show off the smooth stones they painted with symbols and artwork that resembled what peace means to them. The Reveal marked the final step— share in the Herbert Mills Elementary Engineering Design Process. The project launched three weeks prior at Morning Roar, the school-wide meeting that begins each school day. Read More The Hybrid Teaching Model Submitted To: South Dakota Community Foundation In Fulfillment Of: Bush Community Grant In 2015, South Dakota Innovation Lab (SDIL) was awarded a Bush South Dakota Community Foundation grant for the purpose of piloting a Hybrid teaching system that incorporates technology and prototypes a model for integrating content and problem-based instructional strategies alongside hybrid delivery for pre-service teachers. The proposal comes from a five year quest to address several critical issues facing education in rural America. Read More Summer Hybrid Teaching Three teachers in one classroom, teaching multiple subjects at the same time? How can standards be addressed if everything is combined together? How do students even know what they are learning? This summer, PAST piloted a hybrid teaching program called Sprouts, and began collecting answers to these questions. Read More Want to See PAST in Action in Your Community? We’re always looking for new partners who believe in bold, hands-on learning. Start the Conversation View Upcoming Events

Celebrate innovation and impact with STEM of Spirits 2026! Discover how summer STEM programs change lives. Save the date and join us! STEM of Spirits Stem of Spirits 2026 Join us for STEM of Spirits 2026 as we celebrate 26 years of innovation, impact, and linking learning to life! Hosted at the PAST Innovation Lab, this evening brings together community members, educators, and industry leaders for hands-on STEM activities, local food and spirits, and inspiring stories of student transformation. All proceeds support scholarships for students to attend our Summer Programs—ensuring every young learner has the chance to explore, create, and thrive. What to Expect Interactive STEM demos and hands-on activities Tastings from local breweries, distilleries, and food vendors Opportunities to meet students, educators, and community partners A celebration of how STEM learning transforms lives Save The Date Date: Spring 2026 Location: PAST Innovation Lab, 1003 Kinnear Rd, Columbus, OH 43212 How You Can Participate Become an Experience Partner Coming Soon Sponsor the Event Coming Soon Make an In-Kind Donation Coming Soon About Stem of Spirits Since 2017, STEM of Spirits has brought the PAST Foundation community together to celebrate the connection between innovation, education, and craft. What began as a fundraiser has grown into an experience that highlights how STEM is part of everyday life, including the food and beverage industries. Over the years, we have partnered with hundreds of local makers, brewers, chefs, and distillers to create an event that is hands-on, community-focused, and full of discovery. These lasting partnerships reflect a shared commitment to inspiring learning that connects students with real-world opportunities. All proceeds support student scholarships for PAST’s Summer Programs — helping more young learners explore, invent, and thrive through hands-on STEM experiences. I’ve brought a lot of what I learned at PAST camps with me to college—especially how science and math connect to everyday life.” — Christian, PAST Alumnus How Summer STEM Programs Change Lives The CAD & 3D Printing camp brought out so much creativity in all of us. It was amazing to see students sharing and inventing together.” — Audrey, High School Student & Summer Program Intern How Summer STEM Programs Change Lives I was surprised how much fun STEM could be—and that I was really having fun AND learning!” — Laken, Middle School Student How Summer STEM Programs Change Lives Ready to Celebrate? Reserve your seat, bring your friends, and support the next generation of innovators. Contact Us

Explore Virtual Resources that inspire curiosity and creativity. Our Virtual Resources bring STEM to life for teachers, students, and parents. Virtual Resources STEM Learning Anytime, For Anyone Our virtual resources are here to inspire curiosity, creativity, and hands-on learning. Whether you’re a teacher, student, parent, professional, or simply someone who loves to explore, you’ll find tools, ideas, and experiences that bring STEM to life. Explore Our Offerings Learning Unboxed Hosted by PAST Founder and CEO Annalies Corbin, this podcast dives into the future of learning with voices from education, business, and industry. Episodes explore the innovations shaping how we teach, learn, and lead. Listen to the Podcast Online Courses From systems thinking to STEM integration, our self-paced online courses are a great entry point for educators seeking to transform their practice. Each course is designed with real-world application and immediate classroom impact in mind. Browse Online Courses STEM Activities at Home Looking for engaging, budget-friendly STEM challenges? Our collection of downloadable activities is designed for students of all ages to explore science, engineering, and design thinking from home or the classroom. Browse STEM Activities STEM Streaming STEMStreaming brings you hands-on activities to try at home, virtual learning experiences for the classroom, and webinars for educators looking to grow their practice. Browse activities, watch past sessions, or explore our archive of STEM strategies. Explore STEMStreaming Stay in the Loop Sign up for our newsletter to get new STEM activities, course updates, and podcast episodes sent straight to your inbox. Join Our Email List

Explore 'Learning Unboxed with Annalies Corbin' for insights on positive disruption in education and industry partnerships. Discover the innovative podcast now! Learning Unboxed with Annalies Corbin Discover the role of positive disruption in the education and business and industry partnerships of today and the near future. Most Recent Episodes Start Listening New episodes every week featuring voices from education, business, research, and beyond. Each conversation highlights the innovative ideas and unlikely collaborations that are reimagining what learning can look like. Listen on Your Favorite Platform Spotify Apple Podcasts Stitcher About the Podcast The Learning Unboxed podcast dives into the bold ideas and forward-thinking practices transforming education from the ground up. Hosted by PAST Foundation Founder and CEO Annalies Corbin, each episode offers a window into real-world innovation, from classroom redesigns to workforce pipelines and everything in between. I would argue that, in fact, education is not broken. It’s just no longer relevant — we spend billions of dollars annually trying to fix something that’s not actually broken. Our current education system is functioning exactly as it was designed 100 years ago. The problem is that the current system is obsolete. —Annalies Corbin Whether you're an educator, entrepreneur, policy maker, or lifelong learner, this podcast invites you into the conversation. Meet the Host: Annalies Corbin As founder and CEO of the PAST Foundation, Annalies has helped transform how communities connect education to real-world opportunity. Through her work with educators, students, researchers, and business leaders, she has become a national voice for innovation in education and workforce development. More About Annalies LinkedIn Join the Conversation Innovation in learning starts with sharing ideas. Dive into our latest episodes or subscribe to get inspired by the voices shaping the future of education. Contact Us All Episodes

Explore our STEM-focused Summer Programs and tackle real-world challenges! Join our Summer Programs for hands-on, immersive experiences today! STEM Learning That Feels Like Summer Fun At PAST, summer isn’t a break from learning, it’s a chance to make learning come alive! Our STEM-focused summer programs give students the opportunity to explore real-world challenges through immersive, hands-on experiences. Whether indoors at our Innovation Lab or outdoors in the community, every program is designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and develop future-ready skills. Summer Programs 2026 Summer Registration Opens Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 10:00 AM Join us at the PAST Innovation Lab between 10:00 AM–1:00 PM for optional in-person support and registration assistance. Families will register through Arly , our program management platform that keeps everything in one place—payments, paperwork, family info, and updates. Please set up or log into your Arly account before registration day. Register through Arly View Summer Catalog *Creating an account does not guarantee a spot. Our programs fill quickly! Amazing camp that we are so fortunate to be [a part] of. It is great for my kids to meet kids from other schools, interact with counselors, engage in fun and new technologies that school often doesn't have, and keep that summer slide in check by having a topic to focus on.” — 2024 Summer Parent What People Are Saying I would sign my child up for another PAST summer program, because of the valuable skills he developed and experienced through this program.” — 2020 Summer Parent What People Are Saying I’m grateful for your inclusivity. It's obvious that all are valued for who they are and the unique gifts they possess. This culture is highly conducive to learning...and realizing dreams.” — 2020 Summer Parent What People Are Saying Powered by Our Partners Our Summer Programs are made possible by our incredible community of supporters. Have Questions? Not sure which program is the right fit? Want to know more about the registration process or student support? Contact Us Visit the FAQs What Makes Our Programs Different? Real-World Relevance Programs are designed and led by experts who integrate science, tech, engineering, and design into meaningful challenges students care about. Future-Ready Skills Collaboration, problem-solving, creativity, and communication are embedded into every experience. Led by Experts Every program is guided by passionate educators, scientists, designers, and engineers. Supportive Environment Our staff is committed to inclusion, safety, and student growth — we create a culture where learners thrive. Flexible Locations Indoor and outdoor options available at the PAST Innovation Lab, Mezzacello, and The Lawn at CAS.

Discover the PAST Innovation Fab Lab, a makerspace where big ideas become reality. Meet our instructors and explore endless possibilities. PAST Innovation Fab Lab A cutting-edge makerspace powered by community, creativity, and the MIT global Fab Lab network. What Is the Fab Lab? The PAST Innovation Fab Lab is a fully equipped, MIT-aligned fabrication lab and makerspace designed to turn big ideas into tangible realities. As a certified MIT Fab Academy Node , we offer one of the few opportunities in the U.S. to earn global credentials through the Fab Academy course. From students and educators to entrepreneurs and artists, our lab is a place where learning, design, and innovation converge. What Makes Us Unique? MIT Fab Academy Node We are one of the only U.S. hosts of the world-renowned Fab Academy program—an intensive, project-based course in digital fabrication led by Neil Gershenfeld and the MIT Center for Bits and Atoms. Full-Spectrum Fab + Maker Tools Our lab meets MIT’s global standards and includes professional-grade fabrication equipment for digital and industrial prototyping. We support everything from student research to commercial product development. Open to the Community We collaborate with schools, creatives, nonprofits, and businesses to support innovation across Central Ohio. If you’ve got a bold idea, we’ve got the tools to help you make it. Training & Credentialing We offer teacher training and Industry-Recognized Credentials (IRCs) aligned to fabrication and advanced manufacturing careers. What’s Inside the Lab Advanced Fabrication Zone Ideal for large-scale or high-power work CNC Router Industrial Woodworking Tools Plasma Cutter Laser Cutter Full-Spectrum Fab + Maker Tools Designed for detail-oriented, small-scale projects 3D Printers (FDM & Resin) Vinyl Cutter Embroidery Machine Direct-to-Garment Printer See What’s Being Made From student-designed wearables to laser-cut architectural models, each week brings new projects to life in the lab! Schedule a Tour or Workshop Meet Our Instructors Andrew Bruening, Ph.D. Dr. Andrew Bruening is the Program Innovations Officer at PAST and leads the Maker/Fab Lab at PAST in Columbus, Ohio. Andrew has been working in our Fab/Maker Space for more than 10 years. View Portfolio Kelleigh Huey Kelleigh Huey is a Student Experience Instructor at the PAST Foundation and known as the Academic Alchemist! Her combined love of kids and learning led her to the PAST Foundation, where she sought to make a difference in STEM education. View Portfolio Nikki Stancampiano Nikki is enthusiastic about cultural exchange and initiating sustainable change. As the Workforce Development Coordinator at PAST, she aims to use her diverse background to address educational and workplace disparities. View Portfolio Fab Academy: Earn a Global Credential The Fab Academy is a 5-month course in digital fabrication that blends hands-on skill-building with global mentorship. Students master skills in: 2D/3D design Electronics Programming CNC machining Project development Interested in enrolling or partnering with us to bring Fab Academy access to your school or community? Learn More Interested in Partnering or Visiting? Our lab is a place for experimentation, learning, and invention, where users can play, create, mentor, and innovate. Whether you're working on a personal project, a startup idea, or an educational assignment, our Fab Lab provides the tools and support to make almost anything imaginable. For more information on accessing our Fab Lab, participating in workshops, or reserving equipment, please reach out! Contact Us Powered by Our Partners

Join the PAST Team and help us reimagine education. Explore open positions and join our passionate, collaborative organization today! Join the PAST Team We’re always looking for passionate, curious, and collaborative people to help us reimagine education. Whether you’re interested in teaching, designing programs, or supporting our operations, there may be a role for you at PAST! Open Positions At PAST, you’ll join a collaborative, curious, and mission-driven team. Whether we’re designing new programs, mentoring students, or building partnerships, we lead with creativity, purpose, and a shared belief that education can (and should) be better. We post full-time, part-time, and seasonal roles throughout the year. Check back regularly for new opportunities. We don’t have any open positions at the moment, but we’re always building new opportunities. Check back soon, follow us on social media, or subscribe to our newsletter to be the first to know when we’re hiring. Newsletter What It’s Like to Work at PAST We believe learning should be joyful, meaningful, and connected to the real world, and that goes for our workplace, too. Meet the Team At PAST, you’ll join a collaborative, curious, and mission-driven team. We lead with creativity, purpose, and a shared belief that education can (and should) be better. Whether we’re designing new programs, mentoring students, or building partnerships.

Discover how we're Building the Future of Learning, One Experience at a Time. Join our mission to transform education with innovative experiences. 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 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. 3.2+ million students impacted 24,000+ educators engaged 500+ industry and community partners 1,000+ districts influenced 596 programs at 120+ locations What’s Next? Learn how we bring this mission to life through immersive programs, applied research, and powerful partnerships. Partner with PAST See Educator Offerings Explore Student Programs View Our Research