The Grace’s Spark Science Center and Oracle Team Up to Expand STEAM Access for Region 14 Students

Abilene, Texas-Sep 4, 2026

The Grace Museum's Spark Science Center is proud to announce free educational field trip admission for all 5th-grade students enrolled in Region 14 public school districts during the 2026-2027 school year, saving participating districts the cost of admission and classes. This initiative spans 42 districts and will provide more than 5,000 students with the opportunity to explore science in an inspiring, hands-on environment.

By removing admission and class costs, the program ensures equitable access to high-quality STEAM experiences that align with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills. Students will engage with interactive exhibits and participate in hands-on learning led by knowledgeable educators and volunteers. Through activities in engineering, technology, biology, energy, physics, and astronomy, students will strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving skills while connecting classroom learning to the world around them and to career pathways that match their interests.

With Oracle's support, The Grace is extending this opportunity to reach local and rural districts, ensuring that every student has the chance to experience the wonder of science firsthand and inspiring future innovators across the region.

"This represents remarkable savings for these districts, and we anticipate that most schools will make a day of it in Abilene by turning it into an all-day learning event that includes visits to other educational sites," said Marsha Hammack, Director of the Science Center.

"Sometimes all it takes is one experience to help a young person see a possibility they hadn't imagined for themselves," said Colleen Cassity, global head of Social Impact, Oracle. "Spark Science Center is creating those moments for students across the region, regardless of where they live or the resources available to their school. We're honored to support their work and give more young people the opportunity to explore, discover, and imagine where their curiosity might take them."

About The Grace Museum and Spark Science Center

The mission of The Grace Museum is to build connections within the evolving Texas story to American fine art, regional history, and the world of science through exhibitions, collections, and inspiring experiences. The Spark Science Center envisions generations of confident, creative, deep-thinkers contributing to STEAM fields and inspired to solve the needs of the future.

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