The Reading Science Center has been awarded $67,500 in state tax credits through the Pennsylvania Neighborhood Assistance Program.
The program encourages private sector investment in projects by providing tax credits of up to 95% on contributions that businesses donate to support projects that address neighborhood and community problems. The gifts for this project were given by Customers Bank, Fulton Bank and Tompkins Bank.
Building on a previously expanded classroom and lunchroom space, officials said this latest support will allow the center to further enhance how classroom space is used, add new furnishings, acquire instructional technology and purchase equipment that better supports group learning and public programs.
These improvements, they say, are designed to make the spaces more flexible, comfortable and functional for students and educators alike, allowing the center to accommodate more learners while improving the overall experience for visiting groups.
In addition to physical enhancements, the funding will invest in the growth of the center’s educational team. New staff roles will help expand field trips, after-school programs and classroom-based experiences.
“The science center is a special place,” Egon Cools, director of educational programming, said. “We have a talented roster of educators who lean into our interactive way of teaching science through curiosity, and I am eager to continue growing this educational staff.”
By further refining its classroom and lunchroom areas, the center is improving how students move through their field trip — creating smoother transitions, more effective learning time and a better overall experience for teachers planning field trips.
“The science center has always been a huge hit with our students,” said Kelly Wendler, a second grade teacher at 10th & Green Elementary in the Reading School District. “The classroom lessons not only align with our curriculum, but the kids have ‘light bulb’ moments and leave there believing in the magic of science.”