This article was originally published in The Notebook. In August 2020, The Notebook became Chalkbeat Philadelphia.
FMC Corp. scientist Frank Zawacki (standing) explains to Hill-Freedman Middle School students a chemical reaction created by mixing two solutions. This was one of several activities the diversified chemical company sponsored through its $100,000 “Teaching the Science of Curiosity” grant as part of the Philadelphia Science Festival held in April. Through the grant, FMC is also providing free summer Science Institute courses for District teachers, covering topics in chemistry, astronomy, landforms, sound, and restless earth. The courses are intended to connect teachers with scientists, giving them the training and resources needed to engage students in science, technology, engineering, and math.