Search Results
96 results found with an empty search
- Microschools | PAST Foundation
Discover how Microschools Powered by PAST revolutionize STEM education with personalized, community-focused learning. Explore our Microschools today! Microschools Powered by PAST Personalized, community-rooted learning for the next generation of STEM leaders PAST Microschools integrate personalized, community-focused learning environments, tailored to address STEM education challenges. Partnering with community, academic, and industry stakeholders, we customize programs to meet student needs. The PAST Foundation Innovation Lab is integral to each Microschool’s framework, operating for over a decade and impacting hundreds of students from underrepresented backgrounds. Through this lab, students have immersive, hands-on learning experiences, personalized mentorship, and invaluable exposure to real-world applications in STEM. Explore Our Microschools 01 Early IT Microschool A partnership with the University of Cincinnati empowering high school students to earn early college credit and pursue careers in information technology. Explore 02 Medicine & Biotechnology Microschool A collaboration with Columbus State introducing students to college-level healthcare and biotech coursework, career pathways, and professional certifications. Explore Why Microschools? Microschools create tight-knit communities where students receive the attention, structure, and challenge they need to thrive. Our model is particularly effective for students from underserved populations who benefit from culturally responsive, hands-on education. Our approach integrates anthropology and STEM to deliver culturally relevant educational experiences. Interested in Launching a Microschool? We partner with school districts to co-design custom microschool experiences that match local workforce needs and student interests. Our team supports districts with recruitment, summer boot camps, curriculum design, data collection, and ongoing mentorship. Bring a PAST Microschool to your district or organization. Contact Us
- Workforce Development (Partners) | PAST Foundation
Explore PAST Foundation's Workforce Development programs offering partnership opportunities for students, educators, and community partners. Workforce Development Building the Workforce of Tomorrow PAST Foundation partners with industry, foundations, and community organizations to prepare students and educators for the future of work. Together, we are addressing workforce gaps, expanding opportunity, and building a more equitable pipeline into high-demand STEM careers. This work is not hypothetical. It is hands-on, credentialed, and already making a difference for thousands of learners across Ohio and beyond. Partnership Opportunities A Proven Approach with Tangible Impact Our Workforce Development programs are designed to align education with real-world outcomes. 500+ students earned 850+ industry-recognized credentials 375+ educators trained across 32 counties 125,000+ students impacted by PAST-trained teachers 500+ business and industry partners engaged These results are powered by strategic partnerships that open doors for learners while strengthening communities and industries. View Student Impact Stories Why Partnerships Matter The jobs of tomorrow require more than just technical skills—they demand new ways of thinking and new kinds of collaboration. Together with businesses, foundations, and community leaders, we co-create workforce programs that: Prepare students for in-demand careers Promote equity and access in STEM education Build local talent pipelines Equip educators to deliver real-world instruction Provide mentorship, coaching, and credential access Engage underserved communities in meaningful ways Our partners are not simply funding programs. They are co-designing solutions, mentoring students, and helping shape a stronger, more resilient workforce where every student has the chance to thrive. Explore Corporate Social Responsibility Partnership Opportunities 01 Host Internships, job shadowing, and site visits that give students a real-world view of your industry. 02 Mentor Support students through project-based learning, feedback, and coaching. 03 Invest Fund credential access, transportation, educator training, and equipment to scale impact. 04 Collaborate Work with us to develop a custom initiative aligned with your talent pipeline needs. Talk to Our Workforce Team “It was impressive to see that the interns learned real-world problem-solving skills using the DMAIC method and earned certifications as white and yellow belts. The skills they’re gaining — from 3D printing and CAD to AI support — align directly with what we use every day in our design work. Advancing these skills gives students a significant advantage.” — Industry Partner (2024) Join a growing network of organizations making a measurable difference in education, workforce readiness, and community impact. Become a Workforce Partner
- Annual Reports | PAST Foundation
Explore our Annual Reports to see the impact of PAST Foundation. View the current Annual Report and learn more about our mission. Annual Reports View Current Annual Report Each year, the PAST Foundation publishes an Annual Report to reflect on our work, celebrate accomplishments, and share where we’re headed. In addition to the subject matter typically found in Annual Reports, we share exciting results and activities from our Evaluation & Knowledge Capture studies, camps for students and teachers, the progress of TPBL and the future for PAST transformational work being done in schools throughout the country. 2024 Annual Report Explore Previous Reports 2022-2023 Annual Report 2020 Annual Report 2019 Annual Report 2018 Annual Report 2017 Annual Report 2016 Annual Report 2015 Annual Report 2013 – 2014 Annual Report 2012 Annual Report 2011 Annual Report 2010 Annual Report 2009 Annual Report 2008 Annual Report
- Cookies Policy | PAST Foundation
Cookies Policy PAST Foundation Cookie Policy Cookies and other Identifiers consist of portions of code installed in the browser that assist the Owner in providing the Service according to the purposes described. Some of the purposes for which Cookies are installed may also require the User’s consent. Where the installation of Cookies is based on consent, such consent can be freely withdrawn at any time following the instructions provided in this document. This Application uses so-called “technical” Cookies and other similar Trackers to carry out activities that are strictly necessary for the operation or delivery of the Service. Measurement This Application uses Trackers to measure traffic and analyze User behavior with the goal of improving the Service. 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 and 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 and Usage Data. Place of processing: United States – Privacy Policy – Opt Out . 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 and various types of Data as specified in the privacy policy of the service. Place of processing: Malta – Privacy Policy – Opt Out. How to manage preferences and provide or withdraw consent There are various ways to manage Tracker related preferences and to provide and withdraw consent, where relevant: Users can manage preferences related to Trackers from directly within their own device settings, for example, by preventing the use or storage of Trackers. Additionally, whenever the use of Trackers is based on consent, Users can provide or withdraw such consent by setting their preferences within the cookie notice or by updating such preferences accordingly via the relevant consent-preferences widget, if available. It is also possible, via relevant browser or device features, to delete previously stored Trackers, including those used to remember the User’s initial consent. Other Trackers in the browser’s local memory may be cleared by deleting the browsing history. With regard to any third-party Trackers, Users can manage their preferences and withdraw their consent via the related opt-out link (where provided), by using the means indicated in the third party’s privacy policy, or by contacting the third party. Notwithstanding the above, Users may follow the instructions provided by YourOnlineChoices (EU), the Network Advertising Initiative (US) and the Digital Advertising Alliance (US), DAAC (Canada), DDAI (Japan) or other similar services. Such initiatives allow Users to select their tracking preferences for most of the advertising tools. The Owner thus recommends that Users make use of these resources in addition to the information provided in this document. The Digital Advertising Alliance offers an application called AppChoices that helps Users to control interest-based advertising on mobile apps. Owner and Data Controller PAST Foundation 1003 Kinnear Road Columbus, Ohio 43212 Owner contact email: info@pastinnovationlab.org Since the installation of third-party Cookies and other tracking systems through the services used within this Application cannot be technically controlled by the Owner, any specific references to Cookies and tracking systems installed by third parties are to be considered indicative. In order to obtain complete information, the User is kindly requested to consult the privacy policy for the respective third-party services listed in this document. Given the objective complexity surrounding the identification of technologies based on Cookies, Users are encouraged to contact the Owner should they wish to receive any further information on the use of Cookies by this Application.
- Professional Learning Experiences | PAST Foundation
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
- Summer Programs | PAST Foundation
Explore our STEM-focused Summer Programs and tackle real-world challenges! Join our Summer Programs for hands-on, immersive experiences today! Summer Programs 2026 Summer Registration IS NOW OPEN Need Help? Email us at programs@pastfoundation.org or call our office between 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM at 614-340-120 Summer Scholarships Summer 2026 Catalog 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. 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. 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
- Annalies Corbin | PAST Foundation
Discover how Dr. Annalies Corbin is redefining education through innovation and research. Learn more about Dr. Annalies Corbin's impact today! Dr. Annalies Corbin Founder & CEO of the PAST Foundation A National Leader in Innovation and Real-World Learning Dr. Annalies Corbin is an anthropologist, researcher, speaker, and educational innovator known for challenging the boundaries between education, industry, and community. As the Founder and CEO of the PAST Foundation, Dr. Corbin has spent over two decades leading one of the nation's most recognized organizations for connecting transdisciplinary research to the future of learning. She is widely known for her dynamic leadership style and her commitment to designing bold, real-world solutions that empower students and educators alike. At the Intersection of Education, Research, and Industry Annalies brings a unique lens to her work, grounded in the social sciences but always focused on applied impact. She is a sought-after speaker and advisor on transformative education, STEM integration, and workforce development. Nationally Recognized Contributions Remarkable Women 2025, Nextstar Media Group. Daniel G. Roberts Award for Excellence in Public Historical Archaeology, Society for Historical Archaeology OhioX Trailblazers Award, OhioX Association. In recognition for her leadership and contributions to transforming tech in Ohio. Future 50, Columbus CEO Magazine, inagral class of Future 50 Innovators and Leaders in Columbus, Ohio. Women in Design Awardee, Columbus College of Art and Design. Columbus Business First BizTech Outstanding Technology Team Award, to PAST Foundation and JadeTrack for their work in creating the Energy4Learning Program Columbus Business First BizTech Outstanding Non-Profit Service Award, in recognition of contributions made to a culture of technology leadership and innovation. Carol V. Ruppe’ Distinguished Service Award, to honor her record of sustained and outstanding service to both the Society of Historical Archaeology and The Advisory Council on Underwater Archaeology. White House Summit on High School Design Clinton Global Initiative U.S. Department of Education STEM 2026 Vision Report Featured in Forbes: “Reimagining High School” Smart 50 Award (Ohio) for Innovation A Voice for Positive Disruption Dr. Corbin is the creator and host of the widely popular Learning Unboxed podcast, that explores positive disruption in teaching, learning and the future of work. Through insightful conversations with educators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, she amplifies the ideas shaping the next generation of learning. She is also the author of Hacking School: Five Strategies to Link Learning to Life , a practical guide to educational transformation. The book outlines five actionable strategies—student agency, culturally relevant education, mastery learning, transdisciplinary teaching, and problem-based learning—that help educators reconnect classrooms with real-world purpose. Together, Learning Unboxed and Hacking School offer a clear, accessible path toward a more relevant, equitable, and empowered future of learning. Buy Hacking School Listen to Learning Unboxed Speaking & Media Dr. Corbin is a regular keynote speaker, panelist and podcast guest, appearing at: Columbus Metropolitan Club The Works Museum CCAD (Columbus College of Art & Design) Ohio School Board Association (OSBA) National STEM and innovation summits She speaks on topics including: Transdisciplinary and problem-based learning STEM education and equity Innovation in school design Workforce readiness and career-connected learning Interested in booking Annalies for a speaking engagement? First name* Last name* Email* Phone Org/Affiliation* Speaking Topic* When/Where* Message* How did you hear about PAST? Submit Leadership at PAST Foundation Under Dr. Corbin’s leadership, the PAST Foundation has become a national model for connecting research with practical innovation in education. 3.2 million+ students served 24,000+ educators engaged 600+ programs launched 500+ business and industry partners 120+ program locations nationwide Academic Background Dr. Corbin holds advanced degrees in anthropology, archaeology, and maritime history: Ph.D. in History and Historical Archaeology – University of Idaho M.A. in Maritime History and Nautical Archaeology – East Carolina University B.S. in Anthropology – University of South Dakota In addition to her leadership at PAST, Dr. Corbin has authored numerous academic publications, articles, and educational curricula. She has also served as a university professor and research scholar, contributing to the academic and applied intersections of her field. Connect with Annalies LinkedIn Learning Unboxed Podcast Hacking School
- Metrobots | PAST Foundation
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
- STEM Activities at Home | PAST Foundation
Explore STEM Activities at Home for hands-on learning! Discover student favorites and connect with us to solve real-world challenges today! STEM Activities at Home STEM Learning Anytime, For Anyone Looking for fun and accessible ways to bring STEM into your home, classroom, or community program? Our free collection of hands-on activities invites learners of all ages to solve real-world challenges through design thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. View All Activities What’s Included Downloadable Challenge Sheets for K–12 students No-cost materials and minimal prep required Topics range from engineering and biology to climate science and design Tied to real-world scenarios that spark imagination Some Student Favorites Blooming Flower Create a paper flower with special geometry that will allow for it to open with contact to water. Download Challenge Sheet Gliders Not all aircraft use propulsion to achieve sustained flight. Gliders rely on design and weather to achieve lasting flight. Build your own glider. Download Challenge Sheet Kaleidoscopes Did you know that the word kaleidoscope comes from Greek words meaning {beautiful form to see?} How will you create your kaleidoscope to create color reflections? Download Challenge Sheet Rain Cloud Exploration Spring is here and that means rain! Rain falls from the clouds, but how and why does this happen? Explore clouds and rain! Download Challenge Sheet See it in Action Blooming Flowers Design Challenge STEM Design Challenge and Activity that invites learners to explore how water and life work together through capillary action, and to question where they see this happening every day. See it in Action Glider Design Challenge This design challenge explores the principles of flight, and provides a nice introduction to design thinking and the design cycle. The experiment covers mechanics, aerodynamics, physics, and simple calculus. See it in Action Stained Glass Design Challenge Create a stained glass panel that is both interesting and and structurally sound and tells a story without using words. See it in Action Kaleidoscope Mini Challenge Kaleidoscope is Greek for "beautiful form to see". In this Mini Challenge we show you how to play with light and shape using simple tools and methods. This challenge is appropriate for younger and older kids. See it in Action Bottle Flower Mini Challenge Applied STEM with simple plastic bottles, markers, scissors, pipe cleaners or string, and your own imagination! Make a bottle flower today! All Activities Alien Organism You must design an organism that can live in a harsh Mars environment. Download Challenge Sheet Beam/Bird Feeder You must design a bird feeder for your backyard and you must design a beam to hold it away from your house where you will mount it. Download Challenge Sheet Blooming Flower Create a paper flower with special geometry that will allow for it to open with contact to water. Download Challenge Sheet Board Games You must package three marbles into each game from a large box of about 100 marbles, a mechanism designed to separate those marbles into groups of three and a container to hold the marbles within the board game box. Download Challenge Sheet Build a Bridge This Design Challenge asks that you build a bridge using the least amount of materials to hold the maximum amount of weight. Download Challenge Sheet Build a Bug This activity allows you to build a crawling or flying insect from a simple plastic bottle. Download Challenge Sheet Build a Flower This activity allows you to build a single flower or a ring of flowers from a simple plastic bottle. Download Challenge Sheet Catapult Design This Design Challenge allows you to create a table top or ground based catapult from simple materials. Download Challenge Sheet Climate Change The city is concerned that global warming can lead to more precipitation and wonder what the ramifications could be and how to prepare. They hire you, an environmental scientist working as a consultant, to predict damages to the cities’ infrastructure and safety. Download Challenge Sheet Create a Zoo Art This simple and fun activity allows kids to create a zoo from paper cut outs. Make it fun by asking kids to guess at foods, habitats and dangers in their environment. Download Challenge Sheet Energy Efficient Homes American Electric Power Company and Columbia Gas of Ohio have requested a design for an eco-friendly house that uses multiple sources of renewable energy. Download Challenge Sheet Erosion You will be investigating the effect erosion can have on South Dakota to mitigate the dangers and problems it may cause. Download Challenge Sheet Evolution of Tech You are a researcher on a quest to find the most impactful invention from the Industrial Revolution Era and then to transform it into a futuristic wonder. Choose one invention of technology you could not do without from the era. Download Challenge Sheet Extreme Weather Vehicles The challenge for you is to design a vehicle that will provide protection AND relay important information about the weather. Download Challenge Sheet Germs and Soap You must create a tool to demonstrate why soap and water are such a powerful weapon against this deadly COVID19 pandemic. Download Challenge Sheet Gliders Not all aircraft use propulsion to achieve sustained flight. Gliders rely on design and weather to achieve lasting flight. Build your own glider. Download Challenge Sheet Golf Business Improvement Attendance has been down at a local golf club due to inability to play during inclement weather or pandemic. Time commitment is also a hindrance. Your firm has been tasked with developing a business plan to increase attendance. Download Challenge Sheet Kaleidoscopes Did you know that the word kaleidoscope comes from Greek words meaning {beautiful form to see?} How will you create your kaleidoscope to create color reflections? Download Challenge Sheet Lasagna Garden An introduction to compost and composting places. Learners will build a garden bed or a container garden capable of sustaining and growing life. Download Challenge Sheet Moldy Bread Infection Infection rates for bacterial and viral illnesses need to be measured and documented. The location of bacteria in your home needs to be measured and located. Download Challenge Sheet Neutral Buoyancy BOEM is interested in further developing their underwater monitoring program and they need your help designing the optimal ROV (remote operating vehicle) to collect vital environmental data at specific ocean depths. Download Challenge Sheet Paper Airplanes A small Alaskan town has mail and groceries delivered weekly by small planes. Depending on the wind speed and direction there are two different ways the airplanes approach the small airstrip and land. One approach is straight and simple. The other requires the pilot to turn 90 degrees during approach then land quickly. Download Challenge Sheet Pyramid Cup Scientists often need to move things that cannot be touched (think boiling water, radioactive material, or deadly viruses.) Download Challenge Sheet Rain Cloud Exploration Spring is here and that means rain! Rain falls from the clouds, but how and why does this happen? Explore clouds and rain! Download Challenge Sheet Recycled Art You must carefully choose your parts. Take notes on what you choose and record the disassembly of every item, in case you have to reassemble it. Your only tools are outlined below. Be creative, be clever and good luck! Download Challenge Sheet Sail Cars Make a working, rolling car powered by the wind. Download Challenge Sheet Seed Bombs The gardener has seeds that need to be preserved in a SEED Bomb. The bomb needs to maintain the virility of the seed while being stored to be used at a future time. The seeds must be able to be stored in room temperature surroundings without germinating. Download Challenge Sheet Spaghetti Bridge Alaska Department of Transportation intends to build new bridges in several locations in the next few years and they need your help to design bridges that are aesthetically interesting, safe and functional. The span of the bridges will variety by location. Download Challenge Sheet Stained Glass Create a stained glass panel that is both interesting and structurally sound and tells a story without using words. Download Challenge Sheet Stomp Rockets Create a rocket from a 2 liter bottle, some simple connections and duct tape. Challenge yourself to launch the rocket as high and far as you can. Download Challenge Sheet Surviving the Wild A tour company has contracted with you to develop travel brochures for clients interested in going on extreme adventure trips through the world. The clientele usually knows very little about the biome they are about to visit. They will be dropped off via helicopter with only a small backpack filled with supplies. Download Challenge Sheet The Design Cycle All activities are built using PAST’s Design Cycle model. This cycle encourages iterative learning and helps students take ownership of the process. Powered by Partnerships These STEM Activities are made possible thanks to generous support from our community and industry partners. Connect with Us If you need help with implementing and using these Design Challenges or moving your content digitally — we are still here! We are happy to help! Donate to PAST Foundation Become a Partner
- Corporate Social Responsibility | PAST Foundation
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
- Linking Learning to Life | PAST Foundation
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, 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
- Join the PAST Team | PAST Foundation
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. Contract Position (1099) STEM Maker Space/Shop Manager Full Time $50,000 View Position Details 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.
