Kearney Area Children’s Museum awarded grant to expand youth STEM learning

KEARNEY, Neb. — The Kearney Area Children’s Museum is expanding its STEM programming after being selected for a national grant aimed at boosting early childhood education.

The museum is one of just 20 nationwide to receive a $10,000 grant through a partnership between Cummins Inc. and the Association of Children’s Museums.

Executive Director Janell Brown said the recognition is a major milestone for the organization.

“It’s a great big honor to be one out of 20 children’s museums across the nation to be selected for this grant,” said Brown. “We feel like our small museum does some big work.”

The funding will go toward expanding hands-on programs in science, technology, engineering and math, with a focus on giving children opportunities to explore STEM concepts at an early age.

“What we’re founded on is learning young and through play,” said Brown. “Collaborating and entering the STEM work really starts at a young age with playing and exploring.”

Programs are underway, including spring break STEM camps and a planned week-long summer science fair camp where students will complete projects from start to finish.

The museum also plans to expand outreach efforts, including free field trips and visits for Title I schools, helping ensure more students can access STEM learning opportunities regardless of financial barriers.

"We want to make sure everybody has the opportunity to either explore the Children’s Museum or for us to come out to their school."

Leaders say the goal is to build long-term interest in STEM by giving children hands-on experiences early that could shape future careers.

Additional information on the organization and upcoming programs is available here.