With the support of a three-year grant from United Way of North Central New Mexico, Explora provided hands-on STEAM programs for early childhood classrooms at the APS McKinney-Vento and Foster Care Program. The program supports families who are experiencing homelessness.⁠
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Cristal Wilson, Director, wrote, "One of the most significant impacts we observed was exposure. Students participated in experiences that introduced them to concepts, careers, and possibilities beyond what they regularly encounter in their homes and communities. We saw students begin to imagine futures that extended beyond the examples they currently see modeled around them. During and after activities, students talked about becoming scientists. By engaging students in curiosity and thinking for themselves, Explora helped our young people see themselves as learners, problem-solvers, and future contributors to their communities. We are grateful for this partnership and the role it plays for students who might not otherwise have access to these enriching experiences."

July 22 is World Brain Day! 🧠 ⁠
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It`s an annual day started by the World Federation of Neurology to raise awareness around brain health and neurological well-being, celebrated by people all over the world.⁠
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Did you know that acts of kindness add to our well-being, feelings of reduced stress, stronger social bonds, and improved emotional health, which all begin in your brain?⁠
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Celebrate World Brain Day with us in Grandma`s Casita from 11 am to 1 pm on Wednesday, July 22. Make your very own brain cap that charts emotional processing in your brain!

Our Storyteller Series continues! Explora partners with Ms. Marie Booth`s MESA class at East Mountain High School, where students interview local STEM professionals about their journeys.⁠
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This week: Iman Chudnoff, a Wildlife Biologist with the Mt. Taylor Ranger District, Cibola National Forest and Grasslands. She graduated from UNM in 2016 with a degree in Biology, then built her experience through jobs with BEMP, the Museum of Southwestern Biology, and Valle de Oro, plus bat research in Ecuador and seasonal work with the U.S. Forest Service.⁠
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Today, her work is a mix of fieldwork and problem-solving. Some days she`s surveying for threatened and endangered species, setting up game cameras, or removing invasive species. Other days are spent planning field seasons and coordinating projects back in the office. She`s found her sweet spot staying close to hands-on field work, and she`ll be the first to tell you a wolf spider in the garage is nothing to be afraid of.