Catch the Science Bug

The Catch the Science Bug Foundation’s mission is to excite, engage, and empower children, especially under-represented groups like girls and minorities about science and science careers. The goal is that we want kids to KNOW that they too could make valuable contributions to society by utilizing science and related fields in private or professional life, whether it be discovering a cure for cancer or installing a low-flow shower head. Kim Bent, a former scientist and science teacher with a B.S. and M.S. in environmental science, desired to share her love of science with young children. Kim realized that after teaching high school science, if students had a better educational foundation in STEM, high school courses would be not be as challenging and frustrating to students. In 2000, she launched Catch the Science Bug Traveling Programs, where she brought hands-on and interactive science lessons to grades Pre K-8. The success of these educational traveling programs, along with comprehensive evaluations, demonstrated that Catch the Science Bug could reach a larger audience through broadcast. Kim created the non-profit organization, Catch the Science Bug Foundation, Inc. to produce and distribute the television series, entitled Catch the Science Bug. The original pilot was produced under the direction of Rex Trailer, former host of the popular Boston children’s television program Boomtown. The non-profit status became official in December 2004. Grant writing commenced in 2005 as well as filming the first three episodes using volunteers. Nine episodes are now complete and airing via PBS Rhode Island (WSBE). These episodes will be released as downloads SOON!