Vision

Equipping students and people of all ages with the confidence to understand how science works and to evaluate science-related issues is critically important in today’s age. Planetariums are distinctive institutions for educating and inspiring people by allowing them to explore space and the natural world in a unique setting. Through fundraising efforts and member dues, Friends of Arlington's Planetarium (FOAP) complements Arlington Public Schools (APS) investments by programming for people of all ages in Arlington and surrounding jurisdictions, offering STEM professional development grants for APS teachers, and awarding annual college scholarships. FOAP recognizes the diverse backgrounds and needs of the local community and provides access to the planetarium and STEM opportunities for a wide variety of audiences as well as facilitating connections among residents, local governments, and area businesses to sustain this special resource.

Goals

1. 1.Goal 1: Host frequent, high-quality STEM and other programming appealing to a variety of audiences. Objective 1.1: Conduct a variety of public programming at the planetarium Objective 1.2: Organize planetarium programs to meet the needs of specific groups Objective 1.3: Hold events to celebrate FOAP's 15th anniversary of "saving" the planetarium
2. 2.Goal 2: Offer STEM opportunities and support for students and teachers. Objective 2.1: Award STEM-focused professional development teacher grants Objective 2.2: Fund STEM student scholarships Objective 2.3: Invite students to engage with the planetarium
3. 3.Goal 3: Bolster outreach and communications to enable diverse access to the planetarium. Objective 3.1: Provide opportunities for the community to enjoy FOAP’s portable resources Objective 3.2: Broaden outreach to and relationships with the Arlington area community Objective 3.3: Achieve timely, effective communications leveraging appropriate tools