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COMMUNITY:
Project Descriptions

Transforming Spaces: Connecting Missoula's Children and Families to Native Culture, Community, and Higher Education

September 1, 2021 - August 31, 2024 | Media and Technology, Professional Development, Conferences, and Networks, Informal/Formal Connections

The University of Montana will create “Transforming Spaces” to foster a more inclusive, culturally responsive space for Missoula’s urban Indian population and to better meet the community’s needs. The project will explore cross-cultural, collaborative approaches to STEM and Native Science. In collaboration with Montana’s tribal communities, the museum’s education team and advisory groups will design and implement hands-on activities that engage visitors with Native Science. The project will engage tribal role models and partner with tribal elders to create a library of videos for tribal partners, K–12 schools, and organizations. The project will offer teachers professional development designed to fulfill the statewide mandate of Indian Education for All. The exhibit will connect Native and non-Native museum visitors, close opportunity and achievement gaps, and ensure that all Missoula children feel a sense of belonging in museums, higher education, and STEM.

Funders

IMLS
Funding Program: Museums for America
Award Number: MA-249631-OMS-21
Funding Amount: $250,000

TEAM MEMBERS

  • Jessie Herbert-Meny
    Principal Investigator
    University of Montana
  • Discipline: General STEM
    Audience: Elementary School Children (6-10) | Middle School Children (11-13) | Youth/Teen (up to 17) | Educators/Teachers | Museum/ISE Professionals
    Environment Type: Media and Technology | Websites, Mobile Apps, and Online Media | Professional Development, Conferences, and Networks | Professional Development and Workshops | Informal/Formal Connections | Higher Education Programs
    Access and Inclusion: Ethnic/Racial | Indigenous and Tribal Communities | Urban

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