With nearly three out of four West Virginia 4th graders unable to read with proficiency, and an education system that ranks in the bottom five in the nation*, the odds are stacked against West Virginia’s kids.

But, that can change, and the Clay Center is part of that change.

For kids across West Virginia, visiting the Clay Center is much more than a chance for a fun day outside the classroom. A trip to the Center is an opportunity to experience science and art in ways that inspire them to dream, explore and achieve … and, to beat the odds.

But a field trip to the Clay Center isn’t possible for every child.

The Clay Center provides free or reduced admission to every single student visiting on a field trip. In fact, last year, more than half of the 40,000 students who visited were admitted for free, and the rest paid only $6 – less than a third of what it actually costs to serve each student. 

But, what about the other half? Even at this reduced rate, many children are unable to visit the Center without the free access your support provides.

Donate now to give all West Virginia students the opportunity for life-changing educational experiences through free access to Clay Center exhibits, performances, workshops and more.

With science and art exhibits, films, planetarium shows, performances, hands-on workshops and interactive demonstrations, the Clay Center offers a revolutionary kind of learning that increases student engagement and improves academic achievement.

What makes it revolutionary?

It’s a type of learning known as STEAM education, where the arts connect with the STEM fields of science, technology, engineering and math.

This type of learning bridges the gap between artistic creativity and scientific innovation, and when that happens, students develop many of the skills necessary to succeed in a 21st-century workforce – skills like creative problem solving, critical thinking, teambuilding and communication.

Donate now, and help give all West Virginia kids a chance to beat the odds.

*Annie E. Casey Foundation’s 2013 KIDS COUNT Data Book

Thank you to these generous donors who have invested in the future of West Virginia through donations on this page:

Betsy Allen

Hubert Bain

Kelly Castleberry

Fred Clark

Lloyd G. Jackson, II

William E. Jeffries

Laurance Jones III

Alan Kuhlman

Justin Litton

Kathy Bush-Morris

Robin Morris

Bradley Rowe

Judy Wellington