Future Scientists Jamboree Family Science Day scheduled for January 22 2012

Event to spotlight cutting-edge science education programs designed to engage the hearts and minds of tomorrow’s knowledge workers.

Exploration Nation is presenting The Future Scientist Jamboree, a family friendly event that will take place January 22 from 3-8pm at the Stunt Ranch and Fire Lake Events Center in Austin.

The Jamboree is being held to showcase educational approaches that are changing the way science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) is presented and taught to students. 

“The problem of America losing ground in science is well known. What people are missing is that the key to creating tomorrow’s knowledge workers, scientists and conservationists lies in the elementary and middle school grades.  We are losing our future potential in primary school” said Pete Monfre, event organizer and President of Enzoology Education.

Multiple studies show that science is overwhelming the favorite subject among first and second graders, typically over ninety percent. These same studies show that, by the time kids reach 14 years of age, science is only cited as a favorite about thirty two percent of the time. 

“Students should be seeing science as vital and 'cutting edge.' In fact, they should realize that our entire future is science-related, and every one of them will be expected to grasp these concepts so that they are able to understand and assist with the changes that are coming. We are using 19th century methods to teach 21st century kids,” says Jack Jeansonne, science teacher at Odom Elementary. "We need to present science as an adventure, every bit as fun as a video game." 
The Future Scientist Jamboree’s theme is “Science in the Movies”. Working with renowned stunt man and educator, Steve Wolf, the Jamboree will feature hands on demonstrations of the science behind movie effects, live stunt demonstrations, zip line rides, food, a rope obstacle course, the Austin Planetarium, and more. A highlight of the event is the keynote by world-famous roboticist David Hanson and his amazing kid android “Zeno”. 

The event will also feature the STEM Champion Awards – a special recognition award presented by Time Warner Cable for community leaders, legislators and educators who have shown significant dedication to making STEM relevant for young students. Recipients include Representative Mark Strama, Senator Florence Shapiro, Jeff Kodosky, Founder of National Instruments, David Laude, Dean of Natural Sciences for the University of Texas, Jim Brazell, Founder of Art of the Future, Barbara Ten brink, AISD curriculum author, Adam and Michael Benthall – father and son science educators at Lake Travis ISD, Enzo Monfre, host of Exploration Nation and Steve Wolf creator of Science of the Movies.  

More than a thousand business leaders, educators and legislators are expected to attend. The event welcomes families and is designed to provide entertainment for kids and adults alike. All proceeds will benefit the America’s Future Scientist Fund at Austin Community Foundation. 

Tickets are $15 in advance per adult  while kids under 16 are free and can be purchased at http://www.ExplorationNation.com/jamboree