Friday, April 5, 2024
The Mississippi Children’s Museum unveiled a significant expansion to its educational and workforce initiative, coming hot on the heels of their recognition as one of the top three children’s museums nationwide by USA Today just a month prior. Known as The LIFT, this branch of the museum dedicates itself to reaching out across the state, enhancing workforce skills, and promoting STEAM and literacy through teacher training, alongside enriching student learning experiences.
“The Mississippi Children’s Museum is a gift to not only Jackson, but the entire state of Mississippi,” said Michael L. Cormack, Jr., Jackson Public Schools Deputy Superintendent. “We are so proud that they are getting the national recognition they deserve. Thousands of visitors benefit from the museum’s innovative exhibitions and features each year, and as this expansion shows, their work is not done. We are proud to have a group so focused on the success and development of the children and educators of our state.”
In a prestigious nod from USA Today’s 2024 Reader’s Choice Travel Awards in February, the museum was celebrated as the country’s third favorite children’s museum. This honor came after a selection process involving twenty contenders nominated by experts, with the final decision resting in the hands of the museum’s supporters and readers of USA Today.
Mississippi Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann said, “We are so proud to be the home of the Mississippi Children’s Museum and want to continue to support the work they do to invest in the children of our state.”
“I’m proud to host my friends from the Mississippi Children’s Museum here at the State Capitol today,” said State House Representative Shanda Yates, District 64. “You won’t find a group of people who care more about the next generation of Mississippians. They are constantly looking for ways to help our children learn, grow, and develop, which creates a better future for all of us.”
“We are truly honored to be named one of the best children’s museums in the country,” said Susan Garrard, Mississippi Children’s Museum President. “Not only are we dedicated to making sure our museum remains a top tourist destination, but we are expanding our focus on education, outreach and workforce development. The Mississippi Children’s Museum is an incredible place for children to play, but it is so much more than that. We are continuing to grow and invest in the future generations of Mississippians by providing top-of-the line educational opportunities for students and teachers alike through The LIFT program.”
The museum is set to broaden its scope with the introduction of two novel components: The City Lab and The Nest. The City Lab aims to be a dynamic, interactive STEAM space that offers immersive digital technology and computer science training for both students and educators. This area is designed to showcase how young interests can evolve into rewarding careers that contribute positively and sustainably to the state’s future. On the other hand, The Nest is poised to become a beacon of inspiration for educators, providing a rich repository of high-quality teaching materials and a platform for both in-person and online networking. It will offer educators from varied districts access to a wealth of resources, including lesson plans and STEAM project ideas, to enhance their teaching strategies.
Additionally, the museum is enhancing its after-school offerings, which already cater to over 130 children in Jackson and Meridian. This program fosters a secure, motivational setting where students can engage in diverse activities ranging from architecture and coding to art.
“Through programs like The LIFT, we are doing more than providing activities for children to do in the here and now– we are setting them up to be successful adults,” said Garrard. “We have a chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of Mississippians for decades to come, and we are excited to begin the next chapter of this important work.”
Thursday, May 2, 2024
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Thursday, May 2, 2024
