In a vibrant display of community spirit, the Children’s Museum of Central Oregon (CMCO) transformed Sisters Elementary School into a bustling hub of creativity and learning over the weekend. This pop-up event, which drew hundreds of enthusiastic children and their families, is part of CMCO's broader mission to establish a permanent museum space in the region. With interactive exhibits that foster hands-on exploration, CMCO aims to cultivate curiosity and innovation among young minds across Central Oregon.

Empowering Tomorrow's Innovators Through Interactive Learning

The Power of Hands-On Exploration

The Children’s Museum of Central Oregon brought an array of engaging activities to life at Sisters Elementary School. Over two days, the school grounds were abuzz with excitement as children immersed themselves in art and science projects. One of the most popular stations featured spin art, where kids could experiment with colors and motion to create unique masterpieces. Another exhibit introduced programmable robot toys known as "coding mice," allowing participants to issue commands and watch the robots execute them. The pint-sized construction zone was equally captivating, with children donning orange vests and yellow hard hats to build intricate road networks and wooden-block structures.These interactive experiences not only entertain but also educate. Erica Segal, Program Manager at CMCO, emphasized the importance of providing these opportunities throughout Central Oregon. By visiting various elementary schools and collaborating with local organizations like Deschutes Public Libraries, CMCO ensures that children from all backgrounds can access such enriching activities. The museum's mobile outreach program has been instrumental in fostering a love for learning and discovery among young participants.

A Community Coming Together

The success of this pop-up event would not have been possible without the support of several key partners. Citizens4Community (C4C), Circle of Friends, Sisters Parks & Recreation District, and the Sisters Parent Teacher Council joined forces to sponsor the free exhibition. Kellen Klein, executive director of C4C, reported an impressive turnout of over 600 visitors, including around 400 children. Families traveled from as far as La Pine to participate in the festivities, underscoring the strong demand for family-friendly activities in the area.The event's impact extended beyond mere numbers. Klein noted the heartwarming sight of so many community members gathering on a rainy weekend to engage in playful learning. This collective enthusiasm highlights the potential for more collaborative efforts to enhance family-oriented experiences in Sisters Country. Partnerships between local groups and businesses are crucial in building a vibrant, supportive environment for children and families.

Vision for a Permanent Home

Founded in 2015, CMCO initially focused on summer camps and community events. However, the pandemic temporarily slowed progress. Now, under new leadership, the organization has shifted its focus toward establishing a permanent museum space. A significant milestone was reached with a land agreement in north Bend, adjacent to the Cascade Village Shopping Center. This prime location will be part of an expansive 11-acre development dedicated to family and children-focused businesses.The future site promises to be a dynamic destination, featuring attractions such as a gymnastics academy, a swim school, a skate park, and a food truck lot. CMCO is working closely with a museum design firm to develop a STEAM-focused facility that integrates hands-on exhibits reflecting Central Oregon's unique landscape and culture. Board member Kenady Wilson shared that the team has already created a visitor experience plan and secured an architectural design for the exhibits. With ongoing fundraising efforts, CMCO is steadily moving closer to realizing its vision.

Building a Legacy of Learning

The pop-up museum at Sisters Elementary School served as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that accessible educational resources can have on a community. By offering immersive, interactive experiences, CMCO not only entertains but also inspires the next generation of thinkers, creators, and leaders. As the organization continues its journey toward a permanent home, it remains committed to expanding opportunities for children across Central Oregon. For those interested in supporting this vital initiative, donations can be made through the official website at https://www.cmcoregon.org/donate.