We are thrilled to announce the expansion of our STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) program for the upcoming year. Building on the success of last year’s initiative, where we hosted up to 14 schools and served over 600 students, we are now increasing our capacity to accommodate 25 schools and aim to serve over 1,000 students.

How can we achieve this?

To achieve this ambitious goal, we will be doubling our operational days, offering two tours each day. This change will provide greater flexibility in scheduling, making it easier for more schools to participate with the dates available. By doing so, we hope to extend the opportunity for hands-on learning and exploration to a broader audience of eager young minds.

This expansion wouldn’t be possible without the support of our dedicated state park staff. Their commitment to excellence and passion for education make them incredible guides for the student tours at the castle. We extend our heartfelt thanks to them for their ongoing assistance and expertise, which are crucial to the success of our program.

Our STEAM program is more than just an educational initiative; it’s a journey of exploration and self-discovery. We strive to provide engaging, hands-on experiences that delve into the realms of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math, while also inspiring our students to envision the endless possibilities that lie ahead. Just as Julia Morgan, the pioneering architect and engineer, built Hearst Castle a century ago, we want our students to see that they, too, can dream big and achieve their goals through dedication and creativity.

As part of our program, students will engage in a variety of activities designed to both inspire and educate. At the beach, they will explore wildlife, dive into marine science, practice nature journaling, and learn about park careers. At the visitor center, students will participate in hands-on experiences that emphasize the historical and technological developments of our time. These experiences are crafted to provide valuable insights into the evolution of technology and its impact on society, all while aligning with California State Content Standards.

Thank You To Our Donors

We are also grateful to our donors, who play a pivotal role in the success of our STEAM program. We invite them to shadow our tours to see firsthand the impact of their contributions on the students who participate in our program.

New Fundraising Goal

To support this significant expansion, our fundraising goal for this year is set at $80,000. These funds will be used for various needs, including supplies, expanding our program, providing lunches and morning snacks, and covering transportation costs. We believe that with support, we can reach this goal and continue to provide enriching and inspiring experiences for our students.

Looking Ahead

As our program evolves, so does our commitment to excellence. We are focused on continually updating our resources and refining our activities to offer even more enriching experiences. The genuine excitement and curiosity we observe in students, particularly those encountering the beach for the first time, underscore the remarkable potential for learning and growth. Our mission is to ensure that each student leaves with a clear sense of the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.

We are excited for another year of making a meaningful impact and fostering creativity through our expanded STEAM program.