The JASON Project to Enrich 40,000 Houston Students; Chevron Grants Enable STEM Education

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nearly 40,000 Houston-area students will experience the excitement of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) this school year thanks to Chevron Corporation’s sponsorship of The JASON Project, which connects students to real science and exploration to inspire and motivate them to pursue careers in the STEM fields.

“Chevron is committed to providing students with learning opportunities that are exciting and engaging, and the Jason Project is the perfect way to do that”

Using Chevron grants, the Alief, Aldine and Spring Branch Independent School (SBISD) Districts, as well as Houston's Southwest Schools, have trained a total of 259 teachers and 62 teacher/coaches to bring the JASON curriculum to their students in 42 schools.

“Chevron is committed to providing students with learning opportunities that are exciting and engaging, and the Jason Project is the perfect way to do that,” said Joni Baird, Chevron Houston Public Affairs Manager.

JASON’s inquiry-based science modules place students in challenging, real-world situations where they connect with renowned scientists. JASON involves students in hands-on labs and assignments that complement descriptions, vocabulary, and the standards on which students are tested for earth, physical and life science topics. Scientific partners include NASA, NOAA and National Geographic.

“I am very grateful to Chevron for helping bring JASON to SBISD,” one coach wrote in an evaluation of the program. “Students are going to be inspired more than ever.”

“We at The JASON Project are excited at the impact this collaboration with Chevron and the Alief, Aldine, Spring Branch and Southwest School districts will have with Houston-area students,” said Dr. Stephen M. Coan, president of Sea Research Foundation, the parent of The JASON Project.

“JASON reaches 2 million students a year in the U.S., increasing academic achievement and motivating their interest in STEM,” Dr. Coan said. “We look forward to future partnerships that will further spread the positive message of JASON and prepare students to be the next leaders in STEM.”

About The JASON Project

The JASON Project is an independent 501(c)(3) operated in association with National Geographic Society and managed by Sea Research Foundation. Named for the mythological Greek explorer, JASON is a nationally acclaimed, exploration-based program that links students - inside the classroom and out - to real science and scientists through technology intensive, inquiry-based curricular experiences. Learn more at www.jason.org.