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Annual Report

Download our Annual Report

Download our 2011
Audited Financial Statements

Our Story

In 1989, Scientists in School began as a grassroots community outreach project of the Ajax-Pickering branch of The Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) on the eastern edge of Toronto. Catalyzed by two visionary members, Erica Bruce and Dr. Nancy Williams, who wanted all children to have the opportunity to appreciate the world around them through the understanding of science, CFUW Ajax-Pickering launched a classroom workshop program for Kindergarten to Grade 8. Students became the scientists in their school. The ultimate goal of the initiative was to support scientific learning by igniting scientific curiosity in children, youth and adults (especially teachers and parents). Fun, engaging programs connected kids with scientists and made science 'cool' in school - and beyond.

In SiS's early days its structure was provided by CFUW with its national profile and mandate that encourages women graduates to use their education and professional training to effect social change at the local, national and international level. By 1999, with over 100,000 students participating across the Toronto area and a second branch opening in Guelph, it was time for Scientists in School to have its own structure to give it a foundation for future growth and success. Championed by the CFUW club of Ajax-Pickering and Cindy Adams who had led the organization since 1993, SiS incorporated as a charitable non-profit organization. In the five years that followed, SiS grew rapidly across southern Ontario, spearheaded by community interests. SiS opened the program to the regions of Ottawa, Waterloo, Niagara, Peterborough-Kawarthas and Simcoe County. In 2009, SiS opened its first branch outside of Ontario, in Lethbridge Alberta. Working alongside us once again was the local Canadian Federation of University Women, joined this time by three research-based institutions.

Key to Scientists in School's success has been a strong three-way partnership among community, business and education. By banding together, we have made an impact in the lives of more than four million Kindergarten to Grade 8 students in over 200 communities. In fact, early in our history, this unique partnership approach was recognized by the Conference Board of Canada's National Partners in Education Awards when SiS was selected as one of 100 Best Community-Business-Education Partnerships.

SiS and its partners have come a long way on our organization's journey, and our accomplishments are many (for a snapshot, please see the "Milestones" listed in the right sidebar). But we have only just begun. Ensuring that every Canadian child grows up sparked by the wonder of science and technology and empowered as environmental stewards is important work. Our next generation is Canada's most valuable resource.