STEM Council Funds McWane Science Center Outreach
A $253,255 award from the Alabama STEM Council will support educational materials, staff training and expanded classroom programs.
Updated on Nov. 13, 2026 in Financial Aid
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The Alabama STEM Council, part of the Alabama Department of Workforce, awarded $253,255 to McWane Science Center. The funding will support educational materials, curriculum development, staff training and outreach programs.
Why it matters
The award is intended to extend hands-on science education to students and teachers in rural and underserved communities across Alabama. It also helps bring families with limited resources to the science center.
The award totals $253,255 from the Alabama STEM Council. McWane on the Move currently operates in a six-county service area, and the expansion's new coverage has not been specified.
The players
McWane Science Center
McWane Science Center is a hands-on science museum in Birmingham, Alabama, known for its interactive exhibits and outreach to schools.
Alabama STEM Council
The Alabama STEM Council is a state body within the Alabama Department of Workforce that funds science, technology, engineering and math education initiatives.
Brandan Lanman
Brandan Lanman is the chief executive of McWane Science Center.
Greg Reed
Greg Reed is the Secretary of the Alabama Department of Workforce.
The details
McWane on the Move works with teachers to bring interactive science lessons into schools. The funding will support educational materials, curriculum development, staff training and outreach, and will allow the program to reach more rural communities.
Timeline
November 13, 2026: Funding announcement for McWane Science Center reported.
Season Trajectory
The award adds to the Alabama STEM Council's funding for science education outside metropolitan classrooms. It positions McWane on the Move to grow beyond the six counties it currently serves.
Students and teachers in rural Alabama counties may gain access to interactive science lessons in their schools. Families with limited resources may find it easier to visit McWane Science Center.
The takeaway
Hands-on science learning is expanding beyond the museum walls, so families and teachers in rural Alabama can look for McWane on the Move programming at their local schools.
Further reading
Explore more financial aid options available to Alabama families and schools.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WVTM 13.
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