The Reading Science Center is continuing to strengthen its learning environment and educational programming thanks to support through Pennsylvania’s Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP). Through NAP , businesses receive state tax credits for supporting approved community improvement projects. These partnerships help nonprofits like the Reading Science Center advance facility improvements and educational programming, while providing businesses with a meaningful, locally rooted way to invest in the communities they serve. The gifts for this Neighborhood Assistance Program project will be given by Customers Bank, Fulton Bank, and Tompkins Bank.
Building on a previously expanded classroom and lunchroom space, this latest NAP support will allow the Reading Science Center to further enhance how those spaces are used, adding new furnishings, instructional technology, and equipment that better support science investigations, group learning, and the daily flow of school visits and public programs. These improvements are designed to make the spaces more flexible, comfortable, and functional for students and educators alike, allowing the Center to accommodate more learners while improving the overall experience for visiting groups.
In addition to physical enhancements, the funding will invest in the growth of the Reading Science Center’s educational team. New staff roles will help expand field trips, afterschool programs, and classroom-based experiences, ensuring the Center can meet growing demand while maintaining high-quality instruction.
“The Science Center is a special place. We have a talented roster of educators who lean into our interactive way of teaching science through curiosity, and I am eager to continue growing this educational staff. Our shared vision sees spectacular new learning opportunities come to fruition while maximizing the potential of the existing space. I am excited to be here during this growth period. Soon we will be able to offer more exhibits, more programming, and host larger groups of visitors,” said Egon Cools, Director of Educational Programming.
By further refining its classroom and lunchroom areas, the Reading Science Center is improving how students move through their field trip, creating smoother transitions, more effective learning time, and a better overall experience for teachers planning field trips.
“The Science Center has always been a HUGE hit with our students,” said Kelly Wendler, second grade teacher at 10th & Green Elementary in the Reading School District. “The classroom lessons not only align with our curriculum, but the kids have ‘light bulb’ moments and leave there believing in the magic of science. This expansion is so exciting because it will allow the grade level to go all at once and give us more time to explore the incredible exhibits on the floor. Huge kudos to everyone at the Science Center who makes it a fun, engaging, and relevant experience for the students and families of Berks County!”
These enhancements support the Reading Science Center’s ongoing commitment to serving students, families, and teachers throughout the Berks County area, while laying the groundwork for future growth. Educators interested in field trips, afterschool programs, or classroom experiences can find more information at readingsciencecenter.org.