The $1.25 million grant from the AEP Foundation will provide resources for transportation assistance, curriculum development and professional development for educators for field trip programs at Gathering Place. The transportation assistance for 400 planned field trips will be primarily dedicated for students in low-income communities and Title I schools.

“At PSO, we recognize the value of experiential learning in improving literacy and STEAM-related skills.  The Gathering Place is a tremendous asset to our community and we’re excited to collaborate with them to provide engaging and educational field trips and curriculum to area students.  Each school year, over 15,000 students will participate in the field trips funded through this grant. It’s an honor for us to invest in our community’s future leaders," said Peggy Simmons, PSO president & COO.

Through the field trip programming, students will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of experiences, including STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) programming, creative play, performances and reading activities.

“The grant will allow Gathering Place to remove any financial barriers for schools in our area allowing for all teachers and students to benefit from what Gathering Place has to offer through educational programming in a hands-on environment," said Tony Moore, executive director, Gathering Place.