Larry A. Watts 
Calling all science fans and parents looking forward to learning a bit over the summer.
GSK Science in the Summer, a free summer STEM program sponsored by GSK in partnership with the Franklin Institute, aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers by providing children with the opportunity to embody careers in science, to think scientifically, to practice authentic scientific techniques and to have fun, returns this summer with a new theme: ‘Be a biologist!’
The 2022 program invites elementary school children to play the role of biologists and take on challenges in the fields of fisheries, plant biology, paleobiology and wildlife biology through hands-on activities and experiments . Students will explore the world of living things by tackling real-world problems, such as solving a mystery in a troubled fishery, finding ancient fossils, planning perfect plant habitats, and helping to endangered hummingbirds.
Families in the Greater Philadelphia five-county area can enter the lottery to enroll in the program beginning at noon May 9 at www.scienceinthesummer.fi.edu/phila and ending at 5 p.m., June 3.
This summer, 6,000 children from the Greater Philadelphia area will join thousands of other GSK Science in the Summer students across the country to learn the importance of biology through fun, hands-on, and kid-friendly experiences. age in local libraries and community organizations.
The 100% free STEM enrichment program helps prevent the summer slide and keeps students engaged in learning through hands-on activities that will help ignite a lifelong passion for science. This year, the program is expected to reach more than 30,000 students at 40 host organizations across the country*.
“Scientists are facing problems today that we never thought we’d face, which is why it’s critical to spark interest in science as early as possible,” said Maya Martinez-Davis, President, US Pharmaceuticals at GSK. “GSK Science in the Summer™ provides students in the communities where we live and work with first-hand science experience that sets them on the path to becoming our next generation of leaders.”
GSK Science in the Summer was established over 35 years ago in Philadelphia as part of GSK’s commitment to supporting diverse and equitable participation in STEM education and careers. Each year it has continued to grow and improve to stay fresh, engaging and relevant to children across the country.
“Science in the Summer has a unique impact in that it takes what students learn in the classroom and brings it to life, creating a cohesive learning experience that connects everything and resonates,” said Dr. Darryl Williams, P.Eng. chemist and senior vice president. of science and education at the Franklin Institute. “Science is at the forefront more than ever, and ensuring that underserved and traditionally underrepresented young people across the country have the opportunity to see themselves as biologists, engineers, chemists or doctors will help create a more diverse STEM workforce. »
