Science Museum of Western Virginia Announces Teacher Appreciation Night

For Immediate Release
September 15, 2008

For more information, contact Fran Ferguson
Media use only: 540/342-5718 or fferguson@smwv.org

Science Museum announces Teacher Appreciation Night!

(Roanoke, VA)—The Science Museum of Western Virginia loves our region’s teachers! Each year, school groups visit from forty school districts all across western Virginia and eastern West Virginia, as well. In all, 52,000 students visited the Museum’s exhibits in 2007-2008, watched a star show or film, and/or participated in a class at the Museum.

Teacher Appreciation Night is Thursday, October 16, 2008 from 3-6pm. Teachers in all grade levels pre-K to 12 are encouraged to attend! At this free event, teachers can explore the exhibits, preview a new MegaDome film and a new planetarium star show, network with other teachers, learn how to schedule a field trip or a Museum Educator’s visit to your school, and earn recertification points. Appetizers will be provided by Café Madrid, located on Main and Market Streets in Salem.

This event is a special opportunity for the region’s teachers, but teachers are also encouraged to visit the Museum for a free preview at any time before a field trip. To receive a complimentary adult admission, teachers must show their school ID at the fourth floor admissions desk.

For more information, please call 540/857.4381. On the web: www.smwv.org

About the Science Museum of Western Virginia
The Science Museum of Western Virginia is an independent, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization located in downtown Roanoke at Center in the Square. 540/342.5710.

The Science Museum of Western Virginia was one of the very first science centers to open in the United States and is now among the fewer than five percent of museums across the country that are nationally accredited by the American Association of Museums.

During its 38-year history, the Science Museum has served millions of visitors, strengthening education and economic development throughout the region. Through hands-on exhibits, programs, and wide-screen films, the Museum nurtures lifelong learning and a greater understanding of science and technology among visitors of all ages.

In November 2006, the Science Museum announced a major Reinvention plan which will completely transform the Museum’s exhibits and programs over the next five years. The Science Museum is actively seeking funding toward its Reinvention goal, including its goal to match the Carilion Foundation’s challenge grant by September 30, 2008.