Science on Wheels is an end-of-the-year tradition at Fawcett Elementary. Thanks to a partnership with the Pacific Science Center, students get to spend a day participating in hands-on science activities. This year, the theme was “space,” and special guest Sharlett Mena, Washington State Representative for the 29th Legislative District, visited Fawcett to learn more about the program. 

The day began with an all-school assembly before students began to rotate through a variety of hands-on science activities in the library. Then, in classrooms, Pacific Science Center educators led interactive lessons designed to encourage scientific exploration and discovery. Rep. Mena visited classrooms and talked with students to experience lessons and gain a deeper understanding of the program. 

Science on Wheels travels across Washington, bringing STEM programming to students in grades K–8. The program focuses on interactive, hands-on learning experiences that help students engage with science through experimentation and inquiry. 

Programs like Science on Wheels help schools provide hands-on science learning opportunities for students. While Washington schools are expected to offer science instruction that includes experimentation and exploration, limited funding and resources can make that challenging. Science on Wheels brings the equipment, expertise, and lessons directly to schools, making these experiences more accessible for students. 

The program has a long history of serving students across the state. Since its launch in 1972, Science on Wheels has expanded its reach through mobile STEM experiences. Last school year, the program served around 113,000 students statewide. Due to reductions in state funding, organizers estimate approximately 75,000 students will be served during the 2025–26 school year. Although the program was eliminated from the state budget beginning in 2027, support from private donors has secured funding for the next three years.