Announces Opening of New Exhibit & Classroom Space

Community Help Needed to Reach Final Fundraising Stretch

ExplorationWorks is preparing to expand with the addition of an enclosed classroom and exhibit space, soon to include the Discovery Lab and the immersive Anywhere Room. This expansion will transform the old balcony into dynamic spaces designed to engage students, teachers, families and the broader community year-round.

The Discovery Lab will be a dedicated education space for summer camps, after-school programs, field trips, workshops and other hands-on learning experiences. The Anywhere Room is designed as a state-of-the-art exhibit space using immersive technologies allowing visitors to “travel” across the globe or into the solar system through a virtual experience.

These additions respond to a clear need in the community. Currently, only 25% of Montana students score “proficient” in science by fifth grade. ExplorationWorks aims to bolster STEM education early and often, supporting both educators and families with high-quality, interactive experiences.

Construction began in late spring/early summer 2025, with an anticipated completion by early 2026.

How the Public Can Help

ExplorationWorks invites community members, organizations and businesses to contribute. Every donation brings the organization closer to opening the facility and expanding access to STEM learning for all ages. Support will help fund:

• Finishing outfitting and furnishing the new spaces

• Ensuring accessibility and ongoing operational capacity

• Keeping programming affordable and inclusive

Donations of any size are welcome, and there are naming and recognition opportunities available for major gifts.

“Having this additional exhibit and classroom space will allow us to serve more families and kids in our community,” says Executive Director Heather O’Neill. “It’s an all-around great project to give back to everyone who has generously supported us while bringing science education in Montana to a new level.”

For more information on the project, visit ExplorationWorks.org.

Since its founding in 2007, ExplorationWorks has been dedicated to inspiring curiosity and a lifelong love for science. Offering hands-on exhibits, programs, workshops and community-focused experiences, ExplorationWorks serves learners of all ages, including kids, families, seniors and school groups. For more information, visit www.explorationworks.org or email info@ explorationworks.org.