Austin, Texas – Beginning today, JASON Learning, with help from Dell, is providing immediate, free access to innovative science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) curricula to the Greater Austin area’s public schools. JASON Learning is a national non-profit that offers STEM education programs, online materials and interactions with real scientists through life changing discovery journeys. All of these elements will be integrated into the Greater Austin area’s public schools effective immediately. The majority of students and school districts served by this grant are from underserved areas of Austin.
JASON Learning, founded 26 years ago by the discoverer of the RMS Titanic, famed oceanographer Dr. Robert Ballard, will work directly with Austin school districts to provide access to JASON’s award-winning STEM content. A nonprofit educational organization, JASON Learning is eager to spread the success of its programs to the broadest possible reach of students.
“Providing greater access to STEM education is one more way we can provide greater opportunity and equity for communities that have historically been left behind, and programs like this are one more way we will make Austin a more affordable and equitable city,” said Mayor Adler. “Helping underserved students in the Austin area get access to these kinds of opportunities is absolutely critical, and I am grateful to Dell for making this possible.”
“JASON Learning is showing remarkable results in engaging and educating children in the subjects and skills they need for the future,” said Dr. Eleanor Smalley, JASON’s President & CEO. “Austin students live in an environment of incredible natural beauty but also of significant economic activity and opportunity. In order to understand the world they live in and contribute in meaningful ways as citizens, they need the knowledge and tools that a STEM-focused education delivers. We look forward to inspiring their interest and achievement in STEM, and look hopefully to these subjects as springboards to potential careers.”
“Dell’s business strategy is guided by the idea that technology should support positive growth and change the world for the better,” said Jeremy Ford, Director of Giving, Dell Inc. “JASON connects students with real science and real role models, providing the essential motivation to study and pursue careers in STEM. Dell values what Austin has brought to our organization and as such looks for ways to give back to the community. Through our support of programs like JASON Learning, we have the opportunity to prepare Austin students to grow and thrive in this digital world.”
JASON Learning initiatives will take effect in Austin ISD, Bastrop ISD, Del Valle ISD, Georgetown ISD, Hays Consolidated ISD, Lago Vista ISD, Leander ISD, Pflugerville ISD and Round Rock ISD. Effective immediately, the program provides students with instant access to JASON’s online curricula, digital labs and games, videos and hands-on activities, which they can take advantage of in the classroom or on their own.
In addition, two Greater Austin area student representatives will have the opportunity to participate in JASON’s Argonaut Program, which sends students and teachers to locations around the globe to work side-by-side with scientists on cutting-edge field research. Every year, students and teachers apply for the program through JASON, competing against their peers around the world for the change to be on the next JASON Argonaut team. This year’s team will excitingly include students and teachers from the Greater Austin Area!
JASON Learning JASON is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 1989 by Dr. Robert D. Ballard. JASON provides curriculum and learning experiences in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) for K-12 students, and high-quality professional development for teachers. JASON has been used successfully in a wide variety of formal and informal education environments. Each comprehensive JASON program includes reading selections, hands-on activities, videos, and online games for students, and lesson plans, implementation tips, and a powerful digital platform for educators. Live, interactive events throughout the year connect JASON participants with inspirational STEM role models. JASON’s in-school curricula cover core content areas and can be used as replacements for traditional textbooks or as enriching supplemental materials. JASON’s after-school offerings, which include the popular Immersion Learning program, bring the thrill of scientific discovery to students in Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs, 21st Century Learning Centers, and other out-of-school settings. Learn more at jason.org.