Building a Robust and Fulfilling Future One Visit at a Time

When I was a little girl growing up in Trenton, NJ, I never knew how much history was woven into the streets I cherished.

It wasn’t until I carved out my own educational path that I discovered the tales of Trentonians and how their past struggles and triumphs have contributed to us as a community.

As an educator, I am always seeking stories and inspiration. Along the way I have learned two important truths. The first is that it is crucial to expose children to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) activities. How can they possibly know what options are available to them if they don’t experience them as children? The other truth is that black and brown children need to see themselves in the history they are taught. This inclusive examination of the past will help them thrive and build their own flourishing futures.

These two truths I learned as a teacher are carved into the mission of Turning Point Discovery Center. Not enough children of color are pursuing fields in science, math, engineering, or technology. Their spark of genius deserves to be fanned in a place that celebrates STEAM and commemorates the diverse history of Trenton.

After a 2019 Kids Count Study supported by the Smith Family Foundation and the Burke Foundation, it was brought to light that far too many children in Trenton did not have access to certified pre-K programs.

Furthermore, there are currently a very limited number of certified daycares within the city limits. Something needs to be done to give a generation the resources they need to climb out of the vicious circle of poverty.

Turning Point Discovery Center is part of the solution. It provides an educational space where children can come with their caregivers to play, explore, discover, and learn the world around them. Perhaps the next Nobel Prize winner in physics will be wowed by a gravity experiment. Or perhaps the developer for a cure for cancer will be inspired to pursue science after a chemistry activity. The possibilities are endless.

So, I welcome you all to my hometown of Trenton to listen to the stories of its people and be inspired by exploring STEAM activities that will lead children down an exciting and motivating path.

Turning Part Discovery Center is a haven for the young mind and a muse for the soul. All are welcome. Join us as we build a robust and fulfilling future one visit at a time.

Kathrine Nunnally, MPA
Executive Director, Turning Point Discovery Center