Museum of Science and Industry

Students at a neighborhood Science Minors Club site work together to build and test wind turbines for a lesson in energy.

About Science Minors Clubs

Science Minors Clubs aim to increase interest in science in underserved neighborhoods by engaging students in places where they already spend their time after school, such as community-based organizations and schools. Participants work together on projects and activities that build curiousity and encourage teamwork.

The Science Minors Club network consists of over 65 locations in Chicago, its suburbs, and northwest Indiana and has the capacity to serve upwards of 5,000 youth each year.

Clubs are organized into four tiers - Associates, Partners, Masters and Ambassadors - that provide differing levels of support. The tiered approach is designed to give sites the confidence and skills they need to provide science experiences on their own. Sites in the highest level, Ambassadors, have been in the program at least four years.

Participating organizations receive:

• Science curriculum on topics including physics, renewable energy, engineering, health, and more.
• Training and on-site support.
• Materials for hands-on activities.
• A field trip and Family Day at the Museum for participating students and their families.

To Apply

We are no longer accepting applications for new Science Minors Club partners for the 2012-13 school year. We will next accept applications Jan. 1 - March 30, 2013 for the 2013-14 school year.

Additional Information

• Science Minors Clubs brochure (PDF)
• Map of club locations (PDF)
• Club partners list (PDF)

Questions? Contact our staff:

Angelina Mendoza, Senior Coordinator, Angelina.Mendoza(at)msichicago.org
Marvin McClure, Manager of Community Initiatives, Marvin.McClure(at)msichicago.org