Griffith Observatory Fifth-grade School Programs

K-12 STEAM education

County of Los Angeles (select only if your project has a countywide benefit) LAUSD (select only if you have a district-wide partnership)

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

Fifth grade is a critical time to spark interest in STEM, especially for underserved students who often lack access to hands-on science learning. Studies show that students start forming attitudes about STEM careers in elementary school. If they don’t see science as exciting or “for them” by middle school, they’re much less likely to pursue it later. Conversely, research shows that early exposure to engaging, informal STEM experiences increases the likelihood of students pursuing STEM courses and careers later in life.
Our programs, which teach STEM in a low-pressure, fun, and engaging environment, spark a curiosity and confidence in students that can change the trajectory of their future. They also promote equity, as students from underfunded schools often have fewer science labs and enrichment programs like ours. Finally, hands-on experiences like these improve understanding of complex STEM topics, reinforcing classroom learning through real-world applications like using telescopes.

The Griffith Observatory Fifth-Grade School Programs are free, state-standards-based STEM education experiences designed to ignite curiosity and strengthen science learning for thousands of students annually, primarily those from underserved communities. The programs include two complementary formats: the In-person Program, which brings 27,000 students from across LA County to the Observatory each year for a three-hour immersive field trip; and the Online Program, which reaches classrooms virtually through live, interactive Zoom sessions.
Both versions are designed to align with California’s fifth-grade science standards and include demonstrations, planetarium content, telescope viewing, and exhibit-based activities. In person, students watch the planetarium show Signs of Life, take a look through the rooftop telescopes, and view a demonstration of how to make a “comet.” The online version, launched in 2021, consists of five hour-long modules presented live via Zoom and featuring content such as telescope feeds and virtual exhibit tours.
We give bus scholarships to all schools that need financial assistance for transportation to the In-person Program. In addition, teachers receive a post-program packet with aligned lesson plans and worksheets, allowing them to reinforce and extend the STEM content introduced at the Observatory. This helps maximize the educational impact and ensures that the experience has lasting value in the classroom.

If our work is successful, LA County will be home to a more scientifically literate, curious, and empowered generation, and a more diverse STEM workforce. More students, especially from underserved communities, will develop confidence and interest in science at a critical age in their educational journey, improving long-term educational outcomes and diversifying the STEM pipeline. As these students progress through school, they will carry with them a stronger foundation in critical thinking and curiosity—skills that benefit not only future scientists and engineers, but engaged citizens in any field.
Our programs also strengthen ties between schools and one of LA’s most iconic civic institutions, ensuring that students from all backgrounds can access enriching, high-quality science learning. Over time, this increased access helps reduce achievement gaps, fosters educational equity, and contributes to a more inclusive and opportunity-rich Los Angeles.