At a time when the word “virtual” has become a way of life, the need for new online learning opportunities is growing. Toledo Public Schools and Imagination Station are collaborating on two initiatives to support STEMM (science, technology, engineering, math and medicine) education.

The first collaboration is a grant from the Ohio Department of Education and Philanthropy Ohio through the Collaborative Fund for Educating Remotely and Transforming Schools that enhances virtual learning opportunities. The over $100,000 grant will be implemented in the first half of 2021.

A second collaboration expands the use of the science videos outside the walls of the Toledo Public Schools, which opens them to school children in Ottawa County, and beyond.

The Toledo Public Schools and Imagination Station partnered to produce the series of 13 videos that bring STEMM topics to life for students – regardless if they are learning in a school setting or virtually. As of today, the videos are available to anyone, anywhere, at no cost.

All 13 videos are currently available on the Imagination Station website by accessing Digital Discovery and signing up for the videos. The videos may be viewed by teachers in other school districts, homeschoolers, or lifelong learners. Each video is designed to meet Ohio curriculum guidelines for students in Kindergarten through 8th grade, and includes an introduction of a science topic followed by a demonstration and hands-on activity for the viewer to complete.

“These two initiatives enhance STEMM education for today’s students, who are tomorrow’s STEMM professionals,” said Lori Hauser, CEO of Imagination Station. “We appreciate the opportunity to partner with TPS and embrace virtual learning opportunities that deliver on our mission to spark a passion for the sciences.”