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  • Monday, June 29, 2020 10:25 PM | Deleted user


    Watch these young innovators—they’re already leaders in their communities! The Ontario Science Centre today announced the five winners of the 2020 Weston Youth Innovation Award for their work developing innovative projects—including a machine to monitor kidney disease data, prototypes to lower noise levels of hand dryers in public washrooms, a wearable device to measure anxiety and depression, and a portable shelter for homeless people.

    The winners, from across Canada, used science, technology and innovation—everything from data collection and computer coding to engineering—to develop projects that can bring positive change to their communities. An online award ceremony for the winners is being planned for July.

    Read More


  • Thursday, June 18, 2020 11:25 AM | Deleted user

    Dear collaborators,

    The Canadian Space Agency is excited to announce a unique opportunity for young Canadians to watch a special session about astronomy by astronauts Jeremy Hansen (in English) and David Saint-Jacques (in French). Help us share this exceptional event with your followers!

    Below are the links to the event announcement across CSA’s social media pages. We invite your to share them without delay. Our astronauts will answer youth questions in a live YouTube session next Monday, June 22. The link will be posted on the CSA’s social media accounts in the coming days.

    In English

    In French

    If you are not responsible for your organization’s social media, I would appreciate if you could forward this message to the right people.

    On behalf of the Canadian Space Agency, I want to thank you for your support. I wish you resilience in this unusual context. Please continue to demonstrate the great creativity that characterizes your organization.


  • Tuesday, June 02, 2020 1:46 PM | Deleted user


    The current crisis of anti-Black racism associated with police violence in the United States and here in Canada has brought needed attention to long-standing and deeply-rooted systemic inequities in our communities.

    Throughout history, Black people have made remarkable contributions to scientific progress. North America continues to prosper immensely from these contributions and yet significant barriers still stand to their being fully welcomed and included in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).  As we reflect on our part in these systems of racism and oppression, as an Association we know we need to do better to further educate ourselves and understand our responsibility in educating our members. 

    We want our Black colleagues and all Black people to know you have our sincerest support and commitment to fighting anti-Black racism within our sector and beyond. 

    We value the voices of frustration; we value the voices of change  – We are hearing. We are listening. We are learning.


    Tracy Calogheros, Board President

    Marianne Mader, Executive Director

    Canadian Association of Science Centres (CASC)


  • Friday, May 22, 2020 2:39 PM | Deleted user

    CASC continues to advocate for the science centre and science museum sector. We are committed to providing our members with the most up-to-date information to help organizations navigate this difficult time.


    CANADIAN COVID-19 ANNOUNCEMENTS

    > Emergency Support Fund for Cultural, Heritage and Sport Organizations. 

    • The $500 million Emergency Support Fund is an additional temporary relief measure created to help alleviate the financial pressures of cultural, heritage and sport organizations facing significant losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

    • The Fund will help maintain jobs and support business continuity for organizations whose viability has been negatively impacted.

    Learn more.

      > Government extends the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy

      Business affected by COVID-19, may be eligible for a subsidy of 75% of employee wages for up to 24 weeks, retroactive from March 15, 2020, to August 29, 2020. More information about the announced CEWS extension to August 29. 

        Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) COVID-19: $962 million additional support fund now available to businesses and communities affected by the pandemic. 

        The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, announced that the RRRF is now accepting applications from businesses and communities. It is specifically targeted toward those that may require additional help to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic but have been unable to access existing support measures

        The funding will be allocated as follows:

        The funding announced is part of the Government of Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan, which commits more than $149 billion to support Canadians and businesses through this difficult time. 

        > Emergency Community Support Fund The Government of Canada has invested $350 million to improve the ability of community organizations to serve vulnerable Canadians during the COVID-19 crisis. As of May 19, 2020 community-based organizations from across the country will be able to apply for funding to support a variety of activities that address a pressing social inclusion or well-being need caused by COVID-19.

        > Opening of program to protect jobs and help business The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, announced yesterday that application documents and updated criteria for Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA) for small businesses are now available, and that the program will be opened for applications beginning on May 25.

        > Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan Details on support for individuals and businesses.

        > Travel and Tourism Updates

        • The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) continues to monitor and provide daily updates on the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, including the steps government is taking to address the situation. Please find the latest updates on official announcements and a recap of TIAC’s advocacy work on behalf of Canada’s Tourism Sector here.

        TOOLKITS TO SUPPORT RE-OPENING

        COVID-19 Tourism Workforce Recovery Toolkit Tourism HR Canada have launched a new Recovery Toolkit initiative for the Canadian tourism sector. Please find more information visit tourismrecovery.ca and relancetourisme.ca.

        Canadian Business Resilience Network (CBRN) Reopening Toolkit This toolkit prepared by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s Canadian Business Resilience Network is designed to provide guidance, or access to guidance, for business owners and senior managers responsible for re-establishing their operations while ensuring the health and safety of operators, staff, customers and the general public is at the forefront.

        Looking Ahead – COVID-19 Recovery Several provinces have begun announcing plans for reopening economies. Timelines and actions vary. See a listing of links for Canadian provinces on our COVID-19: CASC Member Support website page.

        Guidelines to Reopening For organizations looking for information on how to prepare to safely reopen their operations in the coming weeks, the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety has a series of bilingual guidelines available to businesses regarding COVID-19.


        CONNECTING OUR MEMBERS

        > 2020 Virtual CASCADE Awards - Register by May 25, 2020

        On Thursday, May 28, 2020, at 7 PM ET, join us online with colleagues, friends and family for our 2020 CASCADE Award.

        View the 2020 CASCADE Award Finalists.

        Here's the program!

        • Intro from the Master of Ceremonies

        • Welcome remarks from CASC 

        • Greetings from Dr. Mona Nemer, Chief Science Advisor of Canada

        • Encouragement and Inspiration from Col. Chris Hadfield

        • Remarks from Dr. Alejandro Adem, NSERC President

        • 2020 CASCADE Awards Ceremony

        • LIVE: Ask Me Anything (AMA) Sessions

        • Last words from the Master of Ceremonies

        • Stay online for a LIVE musical performance by award-winning artist Paul Lamb (The 2019 CASCADE Awards Banquet musical guest.)


        SIX engaging Ask Me Anything (AMA) sessions to choose from!  

        • Ethics of AI 

        • Future of Medicine 

        • Meet an Animal Ambassador 

        • Science of Going Viral (Online) 

        • What's Next for Space Exploration? 

        • Freestyle Socials: A silly debate for serious problems. 

        Learn more about the AMA sessions here.

        FREE for All CASC Members!

        A promo CODE to register has been shared with you by your organization's CASC Membership Bundle Administrator*. If you haven't received a code, send an email to info@casc-accs.com. See listing of CASC members here.

        *Honorary Members who have not received a code please contact Tina at leduc@casc-accs.com

        Registration for non-members and the public: $20

        REGISTER NOW!


        > Video Discussion Groups

        Topic: Sharing Summer Camp Strategies

        Friday, May 22, 2020 11:00 AM Eastern Time (Canada)

        CASC member organizations are exploring how they will move forward with the reopening of their institutions. 

        • Has your institution made a decision on how they will plan for Summer Camps? 

        • What are some of the reopening strategies you are hearing about? 

        Chat schedule update: We are moving to BI-WEEKLY Chats! This Chat will replace the usual Friday Supporting Teachers/School Closures Chat.  Open to all CASC members. Contact info@casc-accs.com if  you would like to be included in the invitation list. 

        Topic: Part II Reopening Plans - Focus on Engaging Visitors without Interactives

        Tuesday, May 26, 2020 2:00 PM Eastern Time (Canada)

        An opportunity for Senior Leaders and Executive Team members from CASC Science Centre and Museum members to share 1-2 of best ideas to engage visitors without interactives. The goal: Take-away - a compiled document of concrete ideas shared by members. An invitation will be sent via email. Please contact info@casc-accs.com if you did not receive an invitation and would like to join.

        Topic: CASC CEO Discussion 

        Friday, June 5, 2020 2:00 PM Eastern Time (Canada) 

        CASC will continue coordinating a "CASC COVID-19 Response Discussion" for CASC Member CEOs and Executive Directors to address advocacy efforts, re-opening issues, long-term plans, etc. Invitations are sent via email. Please contact mader@casc-accs.com if you did not receive an invitation and would like to join.

        As we all continue to navigate this rapidly-evolving global situation, CASC is here to help, support, and connect our community during these challenging times. Please contact us at info@casc-accs.com if you have ideas for how we can further support your organization.


        NEWS FROM OUR NETWORK

        > CASC Members are supporting families and educators

        > Engaging the public while respecting physical distancing Science centres and science museums are finding new ways to engage the public in person as re-opening strategies emerge across our country. 

          ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM COMMUNITY COLLABORATORS & FRIENDS

          WEBINAR: Reopening Canada: Planning for the Post-Pandemic Recovery Join Canadian Club Toronto May 21, 2020 12:00 pm

          Dr. Isaac Bogoch (UHN), Jennifer Keesmaat (Keesmaat Group), Jean McClellan (PwC) and Angus McOuat (McKinsey) will discuss the challenges and opportunities in opening up post COVID-19, continuing to manage the risks, and what parts of our lives will need to be re-imagined as we integrate back into society.


          Call for Panel Proposals for the Canadian Science Policy 2020 Conference. CSPC 2020 will be held virtually through the week of November 16 - 20, 2020.

          NEW PANEL SUBMISSION DEADLINE: JUNE 12, 2020

            FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

            > Canada Post Community Foundation The mission of the Canada Post Community Foundation is to make a positive impact on the lives of children in the communities Canada Post serves by supporting registered charities, school programs, or local initiatives that benefit children. Applications must be submitted by May 28, 2020. Visit the Foundation's website to review the funding guidelines and apply online.

            > NSERC Science Communication Skills Grant Extended deadline June 15, 2020. The NSERC “Latest News” page lists all the NSERC grant deadlines that have been extended.

            > Virtual Museum of Canada (VMC) Investment Streams Virtual Museum of Canada (VMC) is a federally funded investment program that helps build digital capacity in Canadian museums and heritage organizations. Funding is available for modest to ambitious bilingual online products with interpreted content and an engaging user experience. Examples of products include virtual exhibits, virtual tours, web-based games, web applications, educational resources, and more. The call for proposals for all 3 investment streams will open on June 17.


            USEFUL LINKS AND RESOURCES

            Future Skills Centre and OTEC announce rapid response project for hard-hit tourism and hospitality workers. Through the platform, displaced workers will access information about COVID-related government benefits, training, certifications, tourism and hospitality job opportunities, and options to work in jobs in related industries.

            Smithsonian offers DIY exhibit: Outbreak: Epidemics in a Connected World This free, print-on-demand exhibit consists of graphic panels, interactive media, and files for printing 3-D viruses. It can be adapted to a variety of venues, including community centers, libraries, coffee shops, hospitals, transit hubs, museums, and science centers.


          • Thursday, May 07, 2020 6:27 PM | Deleted user

            May 7, 2020

            CASC continues to advocate for the science centre and science museum sector. We are committed to providing our members with the most up-to-date information to help organizations navigate this difficult time.

            Next Tuesday there will be an opportunity for Senior Leaders and Executive Team Members of CASC Full Members to share their reopening plans and considerations with each other. More information on the Zoom meeting will be sent via email. 


            CANADIAN COVID-19 ANNOUNCEMENTS

            Looking Ahead – COVID-19 Recovery

            Several provinces have begun announcing plans for reopening economies. Timelines and actions vary, but can provide CASC members with information on what to expect in the upcoming weeks and months. CASC will continue to add links to provincial recovery plans as they become available: 

            > Guidelines to reopening

            For organizations looking for information on how to prepare to safely reopen their operations in the coming weeks, the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety has a series of bilingual guidelines available to businesses regarding COVID-19.

            > Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan Details on support for individuals and businesses.


            CONNECTING MEMBERS

            2020 CASCADE Awards - Online With Friends and Colleagues!

            Though we cannot be together in person this year, we're looking forward to celebrating the outstanding people, programs and exhibits from across the CASC network with you virtually.

            More details on the virtual event will be shared across our social media platforms and event e-blasts.

            View the 2020 CASCADE Award Finalists.



            > CASC AGM Postponed

            The annual CASC AGM, which normally takes place at our annual conference, will be postponed until a later date in 2020.

            CASC COVID-19 NEWS LETTER UPDATE

            We will start sending out our CASC COVID Newsletter out every 2 weeks going forward. The next newsletter will be sent on May 21, 2020.

            Video Discussion Groups

            Topic: Reopening Plans Discussion

            Tuesday, May 12, 2020 2:00 PM Eastern Time (Canada)

            An opportunity for Senior Leaders and Executive Team Members of CASC Full Members to share their reopening plans and considerations with each other. An invitation will be sent via email. Please contact info@casc-accs.com if you did not receive an invitation and would like to join.

            Topic: Webb-inar for Science Communicators

            Friday, May 8, 2020 11:00 AM Eastern Time (Canada)

            Set to launch in 2021, the James Webb Space Telescope is the most complex and powerful space telescope ever built. Canada has contributed a scientific instrument and a guidance sensor. Canadian scientists will take part in its exciting science mission that promises to change our understanding of the universe. Join the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) to learn more about this mission, Canada’s contribution, and ways to engage your audience in this exciting space adventure! Presented by Jean Dupuis, program scientist for Webb at the Canadien Space Agency

            This Webb-inar will replace the Friday, May 8th Supporting Teachers/School Closures Chat.  An email invitation was sent to all CASC member staff working in programs, education, outreach, camps and childcare. Please contact info@casc-accs.com if you did not receive an invitation and would like to join.

            Topic: CEO Discussion Forum

            Friday, May 8, 2020 2:00 PM Eastern Time (Canada) 

            CASC will continue coordinating a "CASC COVID-19 Response Discussion" for CASC Member CEOs and Executive Directors. Invitations are sent via email. Please contact info@casc-accs.com if you did not receive an invitation and would like to join.

            As we all continue to navigate this rapidly-evolving global situation, CASC is here to help, support, and connect our community during these challenging times. Please contact us at info@casc-accs.com if you have ideas for how we can further support your organization.


            NEWS FROM OUR NETWORK

            > CASC Members Helping to Plank the Curve

            We want to acknowledge and thank CASC members who are supporting health care providers face this global pandemic. 

            Ontario Science Centre: Staff create a beautiful video montage to thank front line workers.

            > CASC Members are supporting families and educators.

            The "Science at Home" page on the CASC website is updated on a regular basis so that CASC members can see what each other are doing.

            Entomica Insectarium: MEET A BUG, FEED A BUG, MAKE A BUG - a new Friday series on Facebook !

            Manitoba Children's Museum: Get a Daily Dose of Play. Check out their May schedule for weekly themes and curated activities that are designed to help you engage your whole family from the comfort and safety of your home.

            The Museum of Natural Sciences at the University of Saskatchewan: Staff from the museum and the Science Outreach team from the College of Arts and Science delivered 700 educational science kits to schools in the Saskatoon area.


            ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM COMMUNITY COLLABORATORS & FRIENDS

            Canada Innovation Week The event, originally scheduled from May 19-29, 2020 has been postponed to the Fall. Stay tuned for more on how you can take part and join us over the next weeks and months as we build community around Canadian Innovation

            Call for Panel Proposals for the Canadian Science Policy 2020 Conference. CSPC 2020 will be held virtually through the week of November 16 - 20, 2020.

            NEW PANEL SUBMISSION DEADLINE: JUNE 12, 2020  

            Pint of Science Event Come enjoy fun online science talks for free on May 11-13th with Pint of Science! 55 scientists are eager to share their passion with adults or kids. Please visit the website for program and registration.

            Destination Canada Webinar with Minister Joly. On May 12, Destination Canada will host a webinar featuring Minister Joly to provide an update to the tourism industry. Details can be found on the Destination Canada website.

            AZA Webinar on Virtual Camps in action. The Association of Zoos and Aquaria hosted a webinar on April 27 addressing virtual camps and other adapted programming for their Education group on the AZA Network

            Watch the recording of this webinar.

            > Informal Learning Review Special Issue: Navigating our work in the midst of COVID-19. The editors of the Informal Learning Review are offering free access to a special issue that contains 30+ thought pieces from field leaders on navigating and learning from the COVID-19 crisis. 


            FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

            > Canada Post Community Foundation The mission of the Canada Post Community Foundation is to make a positive impact on the lives of children in the communities Canada Post serves by supporting registered charities, school programs, or local initiatives that benefit children. Applications must be submitted by May 28, 2020. Visit the Foundation's website to review the funding guidelines and apply online.

            > NSERC Science Communication Skills Grant NEW EXTENDED DEADLINE June 15, 2020. The NSERC “Latest News” page lists all the NSERC grant deadlines that have been extended: here.


            STATUS OF CONFERENCES RELATED TO OUR SECTOR

            Rescheduled

            • Canadian Museums Association (CSA) November 18-20, 2020 - Montreal, Quebec 

            Virtual 

            • American Alliance of Museums Virtual Annual Meeting & MuseumExpo May 18 and June 1 to 4, 2020: These virtual events replace the canceled 2020 AAM Annual Meeting & MuseumExpo (previously scheduled for May 17-20, 2020). Registration is open.
            • Serious Play Conference June 23 to June 25, 2020: The Serious Play Conference, now being held online, is a leadership conference for professionals who are exploring the use of game-based learning, sharing their experience and working together to shape the future of training and education. Registration is open.

            Considering virtual

            • International Conference of the Learning Sciences June 19 to June 23, 2020: For ICLS 2020, the ways of understanding learning will be highlighted, revisiting the multiple ways of looking at learning, with an eye toward opening new conversations and enriching existing ones. In-person conference cancelled; for updates about virtual conference status, see the conference page or COVID-19 updates.

            Postponed

            • International Society for Technology in Education Conference & Expo:The event will now be held November 28 to December 1, 2020, in Anaheim, California. COVID-19 conference plans can be found hereRegistration relaunches May 15.
            • Public Communication of Science and Technology (PCST) Network announced that its 2020 conference in Aberdeen will be postponed.  Alternative dates of March - April 2021 are being considered and will be announced as soon as possible.

            Suspended 

            • Science Events Summit May 31 to June 2, 2020: Planning for the 2020 Science Events Summit is suspended but will be revisited in late April if it is safe to meet for an impromptu gathering. Join the free waitlist for updates.

            Cancelled 

            • Association of Children's Museums InterActivity May 5 to 8, 2020 
            • National Institutes of Health SciEd (SEPA) May 26 to 29, 2020
            • Canadian Association of Science Centres (CASC) May 27 to 29, 2020
            • Ecsite Conference June 11 to 13, 2020
            • Visitor Studies Association Annual Conference July 15 to 18, 2020
          • Monday, May 04, 2020 8:57 AM | Deleted user

            April 30, 2020

            The CASC network supports a thriving science culture in Canada that values evidence-based decision making. We commend the recent First Ministers’ statement on shared public health approach to support restarting the economy that will be guided by science, as advised by public health officials.

            CASC ADVOCACY EFFORTS

            Call with the Minister of Candian Heritage: This week, CASC President, Tracy Calogneros (CEO, The Exploration Place), CASC Executive Director, Marianne Mader, and CASC Board Member, Dolf DeJong (CEO, Toronto Zoo) participated on a joint call with the Minister of Candian Heritage office along with representatives from the Canadian Museum Association (CMA), Alliance of Natural History Museums of Canada (ANHMC), Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA), National Trust of Canada, and the Canadian Garden Council. Collectively, we highlighted our overlapping immediate and long-term needs in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, and reviewed challenges unique to each of our communities. Details regarding the $500 million COVID-19 Emergency Support Fund for Cultural, Heritage and Sport Organizations will be announced soon.


            CANADIAN COVID-19 ANNOUNCEMENTS

            The Prime Minister and the First Ministers made a statement about restarting the Canadian economy. The Government of Canada will continue to collaborate with the Provincial and Territorial governments and continue using public health as a foundation to guide as they work to restore economic activity and address future outbreaks. The full statement from the First Ministers can be found here.

            REMINDER: the application portal for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) is now open. Employers can apply for the CEWS through My Business Account or through the CRA’s online application portal.

            State of Tourism in Canada. The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) issued their second dashboard report, which provides a weekly snapshot of recent key global, regional and domestic tourism health and economic updates, and insights on the impact of COVID-19 on the travel and tourism industry’s path to recovery. 

            CANADA: Leading indicators continue to point to an easing of travel restrictions occurring gradually starting with inter- and intra-provincial travel (around mid / end of June / beginning of July), followed by regional travel (mid-July), and eventually international short-haul (mid- to late-August) and long-haul travel (into the fall).”

            > Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan Details on support for individuals and businesses.


            CONNECTING MEMBERS

            On the evening of May 29, 2020, CASC will host its Annual CASCADE Awards online. Though we cannot be together in person this year, we want to continue the tradition of announcing the recipients and having them give an acceptance speech in the presence of their friends and colleagues. 

            More details on the event will be shared in the upcoming days.

            View the 2020 CASCADE Award Finalists.

            > Video Discussion Groups

            Topic: Supporting Teachers/School Closures Chat

            May 1, 2020 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

            An invitation to join the scheduled Friday calls has been extended to all CASC member staff working in programs, education, outreach, camps and childcare. An email with an invitation will be sent via email. Please contact info@casc-accs.com if you did not receive an invitation and would like to join.

            Topic: CEO Discussion Forum

            May 1, 2020 2:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) 

            CASC will continue coordinating a "CASC COVID-19 Response Discussion" for CASC Member CEOs and Executive Directors. Invitations are sent via email. Please contact info@casc-accs.com if you did not receive an invitation and would like to join.

            As we all continue to navigate this rapidly-evolving global situation, CASC is here to help, support, and connect our community during these challenging times. Please contact us at info@casc-accs.com if you have ideas for how we can further support your organization.


            NEWS FROM OUR NETWORK

            > CASC Members Helping to Plank the Curve

            We want to acknowledge and thank CASC members who are supporting health care providers face this global pandemic. A few examples of science centres and museums stepping up include:

            Ingenium: Curators launch a COVID-19 digital initiative that aims to reduce social isolation and document the pandemic.

            TELUS World of Science Edmonton (TWOSE): As of April 17, they created over 200 Ear Savers and are planning to print many more. Approximately 40 pieces are printed daily.


            > CASC Members are supporting families and educators.

            Canadian science centres and science museums are supporting families by offering free online educational contentThe "Science at Home" page on the CASC website is updated on a regular basis so that CASC members can see what each other are doing. We encourage you to share on your social media platforms and with your network using the following #AtHomeWithCASC  #ScienceChampions #LookForTheHelpers #ScienceAtHome. Here a just a few examples of what our members are doing:

            Online STEM Engagement 

            Steamlabs: Teamed up with Make Magazine’s Family Maker Camp to bring DIY marble run creations to the world. Get inspired with design ideas. Tune in live Thursday April 30 and Tuesday May 5 at 1 pm EST on the Family Maker Camp Facebook PageWatch and comment LIVE.  

            Youth Science Canada: Launched an Online STEM Fair, a showcase for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) projects that reflect the curiosity and creativity of Canadian youth. The online event will be live for the public Tuesday, May 19.

            Virtual Exhibits

            Ripley's Aquarium of Canada: Learn about their brand new Shipwrecks exhibit with the latest Deep Sea Diary blog post.

            Sherbrooke Museum of Nature and Science: Is inviting the public to visit their three virtual exhibitions. Available in English and French. 

            > #AstronomyAcrossCanada While we're apart, we can still feel united because we all share the same sky. Let's star gaze together!

            Science centres are invited to post at sundown in their time zone about a constellation or object in their night sky on International Astronomy Day, Saturday May 2nd. Posts can include a photo, and/or fun facts about the constellation, and should end by passing along the torch to the next centre.

            The hashtag #AstronomyAcrossCanada will be used both for the handoff in the evening and for more general posts about astronomy during the day. National branches of RASC and CASCA have been asked to participate with more general posts as well.


            ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM COMMUNITY COLLABORATORS & FRIENDS

            > ASTC Webinar on Virtual Engagement During the COVID-19 Pandemic 

            Wed, May 6, 2020 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT

            *ASTC has extended this invitation to ALL CASC members.

            Come together with your peers in science and technology centers and museums for Virtual Engagement, Digital Experiences, and Online Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic webinar. This event is an opportunity to discuss approaches you have been using to virtually engage your communities, develop new digital experiences, and design and scale online learning while your museums are closed to the public due to the pandemic. Register now*. 

            > NSERC Science Communication Skills Grant NEW EXTENDED DEADLINE The pilot application deadline was extended to June 15, 2020. Your application must reach NSERC before 8:00 p.m. ET. NSERC continues to communicate program-specific changes on its homepage via Latest News.

            > World Astronomy Day Collaboration Opportunity: Science Centres and museums can connect with their local Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) chapter and cross-promote or collaborate on World Astronomy Day activities. Reach out to jenna.hinds@rasc.ca if you need help finding the lead for your region's local RASC chapter.


          • Thursday, April 23, 2020 4:13 PM | Deleted user

            April 23, 2020

            In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, in the Canadian Science Centre sector we are redoubling our efforts to serve our communities even while our facilities are closed. You are the science champions reaching Canadians in their homes each day during this crisis.


            CASC ADVOCACY EFFORTS

            > Culture and heritage groups seek targeted COVID-19 support

            Associations representing Canada’s museums, science centres, zoos, aquaria, public and botanical gardens and historic places have all joined forces and today issued the following open letter to the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Heritage.

            An open letter sent on April 22, 2020, highlighted the critical risk to the safety and security of collections across the country and asked for the government’s increased attention in three key areas: immediate financial relief, an investment in digitization and considerations for the sector in a post-COVID-19 world. 

            The letter follows a panel discussion which took place last week, at an online conference organized by the Canadian Museums Association, in which organizations shared common concerns and challenges and explored what can be done by working together. Moving forward, the group will be working collaboratively on issues of common concern.

            Read the letter here.


            CANADIAN COVID-19 ANNOUNCEMENTS

            > Support for students and new grads affected by COVID-19 

            Yesterday, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, announced comprehensive support of nearly $9 billion for post-secondary students and recent graduates. These measures include launching the new Canada Student Service Grant, which will help students gain valuable work experience and skills while they help their communities during the COVID‑19 pandemic. For students who choose to do national service and serve their communities, the new Canada Student Service Grant will provide up to $5,000 for their education in the fall.  

            > Prime Minister announces new support to protect Canadian jobs

            $500 million to establish a COVID-19 Emergency Support Fund for Cultural, Heritage and Sport Organizations to help address the financial needs of affected organizations within these sectors so they can continue to support artists and athletes. 

            > Prime Minister announces additional support for small businesses

            Announced its intent to introduce the Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA) for small businesses.

            > Temporary changes to Canada Summer Jobs program

            The Canada Summer Jobs program provides opportunities for youth to develop and improve their skills within the not-for-profit, small business, and public sectors, and supports the delivery of key community services. The Government of Canada is making temporary changes to the Canada Summer Jobs program to allow employers to:

            • receive an increased wage subsidy, so that private and public sector employers can also receive up to 100 percent of the provincial or territorial minimum hourly wage for each employee;
            • extend the end date for employment to February 28, 2021;
            • adapt their projects and job activities;
            • hire staff on a part-time basis.

            > Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan Details on support for individuals and businesses.


            CONNECTING MEMBERS

            > Video Discussion Groups

            Topic: Supporting Teachers/School Closures Chat

            April 24, 2020 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

            An invitation to join the scheduled Friday calls has been extended to all CASC member staff working in programs, education, outreach, camps and childcare. An email with an invitation will be sent via email. Please contact info@casc-accs.com if you did not receive an invitation and would like to join.

            Topic: CEO Discussion Forum

            April 24, 2020 2:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) 

            CASC will continue coordinating a "CASC COVID-19 Response Discussion" for CASC Member CEOs and Executive Directors. Invitations are sent via email. Please contact info@casc-accs.com if you did not receive an invitation and would like to join.

            As we all continue to navigate this rapidly-evolving global situation, CASC is here to help, support, and connect our community during these challenging times. Please contact us at info@casc-accs.com if you have ideas for how we can further support your organization.


            NEWS FROM OUR NETWORK

              > CASC Members Helping to Plank the Curve

              We want to acknowledge and thank CASC members who are supporting health care providers face this global pandemic. A few examples of science centres and museums stepping up include:

              Aurora Research Institute: The Inuvik Robotics Club, with help from ACTMC2 produced over 200 ear guards to distribute to Northwest Territories health care staff on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. Also in the works are specialized handle covers to allow people to open door handles without using their hands. A number of prototypes are currently being tested at Aurora college to ensure they’re up to the stress load.

              Ontario Science Centre: On April 25 at 4 p.m., join an online conversation Mindfulness in Stressful times,  presented in partnership with The Ontario Brain Institute . CAMH experts who teach mindfulness to autistic adults and their caregivers provide coping strategies for managing the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic.

              TELUS Spark: Shows their appreciation for everyday heroes and a salute to scientists everywhere.

                > CASC Members Sharing Online Educational Content

                Canadian science centres and science museums are supporting families by offering free online educational content. The "Science at Home" page on the CASC website is updated on a regular basis so that CASC members can see what each other are doing. We encourage you to share on your social media platforms and with your network using the following #AtHomeWithCASC  #ScienceChampions #LookForTheHelpers #ScienceAtHome. Here a just a few examples of what our members are doing:

                Discovery Centre: Moved their Little Learners Program online. Engaging tots and toddlers with interactive activities that introduce basic science concepts, kick-start cognitive thinking and encourage dynamic play. 

                Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium: Are adding episodes to their series À la découverte de l'univers (Discovering the universe), an astronomy training program for teachers and educators. (in french)

                Science North: Their Thunder Bay ON satellite location has partnered with a local urban farm youth organization to distribute pre-maid hands-on science kits with food packages


                ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM COMMUNITY COLLABORATORS & FRIENDS

                ASTC Webinar on Virtual Engagement During the COVID-19 Pandemic 

                Wed, May 6, 2020 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT

                *ASTC has extended this invitation to ALL CASC members.

                Come together with your peers in science and technology centers and museums for Virtual Engagement, Digital Experiences, and Online Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic webinar. This event is an opportunity to discuss approaches you have been using to virtually engage your communities, develop new digital experiences, and design and scale online learning while your museums are closed to the public due to the pandemic. Register now*. 

                > Canadian Museum Association (CMA) Survey

                To support the development of their strategic plan, along with other community engagement activities, the CMA is conducting a survey of museum professionals — CMA members and non-members — from across Canada. Learn more.

                It will be open until April 24, 2020, end of day. As an additional incentive, respondents who consent will be placed into a draw for one of five complimentary passes to their next National Conference.

                NSERC Science Communication Skills Grant Deadline: May 15, 2020



                Canadian Association of Science Centres

                #1203-130 Albert St. 

                Ottawa, ON. K1P 5G4

                info@casc-accs.com

                The CASC office is situated in Robinson Huron Treaty territory and the traditional territory of the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek. We pay respect to their traditions, ways of knowing and acknowledge their many contributions to the innovations in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Clearly and overtly this gratitude must be demonstrated in our collective commitment to truth and reconciliation, by working to transform existing relationships, with open dialogue, mutual understanding and respectful collaborations

                ©2022 Canadian Association of Science Centres