Rockville Science Center Faces Relocation, Seeks Community Support
The Rockville Science Center, a vital hub for STEM education in Montgomery County, is facing an uncertain future. After operating in Rockville Town Square since January 2020, the organization recently received notice that its lease will terminate in May. This development threatens the center’s ability to continue offering crucial programs for students and science enthusiasts of all ages, prompting a fundraising campaign to secure a permanent location. The center served over 9,000 individuals last year, demonstrating its significant impact on the community.
The center’s current location has been instrumental in raising awareness of its diverse offerings, which include high school engineering classes, adult workshops, and weekly chess clubs. Students frequently enjoy showcasing their projects to the public, fostering a sense of community and sparking interest in science and technology. The open storefront design allows passersby to glimpse the innovative work taking place within, further contributing to the center’s visibility.
A Legacy of STEM Engagement Since 1989
Established in 1989, the Rockville Science Center has cultivated a passion for science and engineering within the region. The organization boasts a dedicated team of seven part-time paid staff members, alongside a robust volunteer base comprised of individuals with professional experience in the sciences. A board of trustees, consisting of six volunteers, provides strategic guidance and oversight. Ulisses Santamaria, the board president, emphasized the importance of accessible science education, stating, “There’s something to be said about having scientists and engineers here and accessible to the public.”
The center’s programming extends beyond classroom instruction, encompassing regional and national competitions where student teams showcase their skills. Participants, like Annika Balaji, a senior at Montgomery Blair High School, often dedicate long hours to their projects, driven by a shared passion for innovation. “At least once every two weeks, especially up until competitions, we’re here pulling all-nighters consistently,” Balaji explained.
Fundraising Goal: Securing a Permanent Home
To ensure the continuation of its vital services, the Rockville Science Center is launching a fundraising campaign with a goal of $1 million. These funds will be used to acquire at least a 5,000-square-foot building in Rockville, providing a stable and expanded space for its operations. The organization is also seeking donations to support additional staff and program development. The center currently receives grant funding from the Maryland Technology Development Corp, as well as from Rockville and private foundations, supplementing income generated from program fees and annual dues.
Jane Croshier, an 18-year-old senior at Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School and the primary pilot for the drone team, highlighted the center’s impact on her personal journey. “I joined because I was interested in science, and I stayed because I loved it,” she said, expressing her desire to return as a mentor in the future. The center’s influence extends beyond individual growth, fostering collaboration and friendship among students from diverse backgrounds. Abigail Diamant, 17, captain of the autonomous robotics team, shared, “I’ve met one of my closest friends from doing robotics…it’s really cool to be able to help someone through the same math problems or physics problems.”
The center’s current location has allowed students to engage in hands-on learning, with activities ranging from soldering drone components to building robots that mimic the precision of Stephen Curry when launching plastic balls. These experiences cultivate critical thinking skills and inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.
