Regional Science & Discovery Center

🎉 Celebrating 31 Years of STEAM Education in the Southern Tier!

The Science & Discovery Center (SDC) proudly marks 31 years of delivering high-impact STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) education to students across the Southern Tier of New York. Since its founding in 1994, SDC has evolved from a drop-in site to a dynamic outreach organization, reaching over 21,000 students during the 2024–25 school year alone.

🔬 Our Journey

From 1995 to 2005, SDC operated both a physical center and outreach programs. In 2005, the Board of Directors made a strategic decision to focus exclusively on outreach science education—bringing hands-on, curriculum-aligned programs directly into schools and communities. Today, SDC partners with districts in Steuben, Chemung, and Schuyler Counties through GST BOCES CoSER 527, offering:

•     In-school science programs led by professional educators

•     Science Shows for school audiences

•     Family Science Events

All programs are designed to meet New York State science standards and are evaluated for impact and effectiveness

🌟 Mission & Vision

Mission: Bring Math and Science to Everyday Life

We ignite the flame of discovery by creating hands-on experiences that foster curiosity, critical thinking, and confidence in learners of all ages.

Vision: Curious, Critical, and Confident Thinkers

📚 Equity in Action

SDC is committed to serving financially disadvantaged and diverse youth populations. Through strategic grant writing and generous community support, we’ve secured over $144,000 in funding to expand access to free or reduced-cost programs. Scholarships for summer camps, inclusive curriculum design, and real-world learning experiences ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Our kindergarten readiness initiative reaches over 600 children annually, providing books for classroom libraries and take-home materials to extend learning beyond the classroom. Every SDC educator holds a college degree and brings deep experience working with youth from PreK through grade 12.

🤝 Powered by Community

Behind every lesson, camp, and outreach event is a dedicated team of five staff members and an exceptional Board of Directors representing ten towns and villages. Their expertise in science, education, business, and technology fuels our mission and ensures our programs remain relevant, rigorous, and responsive.

We couldn’t do this without you. Your support helps us continue to adapt, grow, and inspire the next generation of thinkers and problem-solvers.

👉 Join us in celebrating 31 years of impact—support the SDC through the FLX Give program today!