Level Up Your STEM Programming with Citizen Science This April

This April 2026, STEM education providers across museums, afterschool networks, libraries, and community organizations have an opportunity to turn their programs into real scientific research experiences during Citizen Science Month.

Be Part of 2.50 Million Acts of Science for America250

This year, SciStarter and partners including the Smithsonian Institution, NASA, Cornell University, Arizona State University, and the Association for Advancing Participatory Sciences are working toward a shared goal of 2.50 Million Acts of Science in celebration of America’s 250th birthday.

Through SciStarter, you can help your community move beyond learning about science to actively doing science.

What Is an Act of Science?

Acts of Science are simple, quick, and meaningful. Examples include sharing nature observations, helping scientists sort images online, or transcribing historic documents from a library or from home. Every act helps advance real research and learning. Every action supports real research while deepening learning.

Instead of only learning about science, young people can do science that matters. Citizen science makes it possible to collect data at a scale that scientists cannot gather on their own.

If you would like a deeper introduction, complete the free, self-guided Foundations of Citizen Science Tutorial at SciStarter.org/training.

Choose Your Pathway: Two Ways to Get Involved

1. Host an Acts of Science Connected Event in April 2026

Bring your community together to do science research live!

Acts of Science: Connected events are two hour virtual programs paired with in person gatherings that you host. Each week in April features a different citizen science project and the scientist leading the research. Participants meet the researcher, learn about the project, and contribute data together in real time.

SciStarter provides the streaming event, printable guides, and support. You provide the space and the audience.

If you cannot host in person, you can still promote the events so participants can join from home and contribute to the national goal. Download the flyer to share with your community.

These events are open to all ages and are best suited for participants ages 13 and up. Every contribution counts toward the 2.50 Million Acts of Science.

2. Integrate Citizen Science into Your Existing Programs

Already offering STEM programs in April? Add a citizen science component.

Dark Sky Week, April 13 to 20, 2026
If you are hosting astronomy programs or partnering with amateur astronomers, promote projects that monitor light pollution and support safer bird migration. Learn more here. 

Earth Day, April 22, 2026
Invite participants to log biodiversity observations, track local environmental changes, or contribute to climate-related research. Find projects here. 

After school clubs and drop-in activities
Incorporate image classification, biodiversity logging, or archival transcription into your regular sessions. You can find ready-to-use resources at SciStarter.org/education.

Why This Matters Now

April 2026 marks America’s 250th birthday. As an official partner of the America250 initiative, SciStarter is helping communities across the country contribute to 2.50 Million Acts of Science. This effort highlights curiosity, civic participation, and the power of working together.

Participating organizations will may be recognized on the Wall of Fame throughout the month!

Your Call to Action

1. Choose your pathway: Decide how your organization will participate and register your event.
2. Complete free training: Build the skills and confidence to facilitate citizen science experiences.
3. Promote citizen science month: Download flyers, bookmarks and more to share with your community.
4. Report Your Acts: Beginning April 1, log your contributions to contribute to 2.50 Million Acts of Science. 

April is your moment to strengthen and expand your STEM programming.

Let’s reach 2.50 Million Acts of Science together.