Atomic Tour 2024-2025

Our Journey ...

Here are a few highlights of our travels:

2024: October 24th

While in Washington DC, we got a chance to drive by the U.S. Department of Education. Funny story - as we jumped out of the truck to snap a photo our propane alarm was buzzing! Ooops...

2024: November 20th

Ivy, the Atomic dog taking a stroll in Avra Valley, AZ. Ivy is a blue heeler, or cattle dog, and she is always looking for cows to herd.

2025: February 7th

Above: we did our best to muscle-up with all the muscle cars at the King of Hammers in Johnson Valley. Below : some of the many trucks that sped past our camp.

2025: February 11

Dr. Woodbury, got to snuggle the vineyard cat the morning after the big rain.

We were parked on pavement but our ladder was in 4 inches of water the morning after the atmospheric rivers swept through Galt, CA.

2025: February 25th

We got to park with the big trucks in Fontana, CA on our way to Whittier for a workshop.

Why It Matters

Contemporary science education standards in public schools remain anchored in 20th-century pedagogical frameworks, utilizing obsolete learning models and terminology that obscure rather than clarify fundamental scientific principles. This approach perpetuates the use of inaccurate terminology that fails to align with current scientific understanding, creating cognitive dissonance for students navigating modern 21st-century STEM landscapes.

Of particular concern is the systematic exclusion of atomic and molecular theory from elementary curricula, a practice that establishes conceptual gaps during critical developmental stages in scientific literacy. This system instills foundational misconceptions. A proposed Learning Progression for Matter and Atomic Molecular Theory is described as follows: "We call it a possible rather than an actual learning progression for three reasons. First, we do not have evidence that this is the progression most students actually take; our learning progression represents a conjecture about a coherent possible path based on existing literature. Second, we do not assume that this is the only sensible or coherent path that might be taken or constructed. Finally, at present, many students do not actually make it through the progression, although research suggests that with good instruction, many more could actually do so." (Smith et al., 2006, p. 26).

It sounds crazy! But it's true (learn more here).

Our movement is about more than education; it’s about the freedom to learn and the right to a future filled with possibilities.

What We’re Doing

Teaching Critical Concepts: We’re going directly into communities, teaching elementary students about the building blocks of matter—atoms and molecules—because their schools won’t and can’t do it.
Exposing the Truth: We’re raising awareness about how Big Education has lied to the public, creating an un-American science educational strategy that stifles innovation and critical thinking.
Demanding Free and Open Access to Educational Materials: We advocate for freedom of education and the proper use of the NGSS standards, set as minimum expectations for students. The NGSS were not created to limit what students can learn and we want restrictions removed.

How You Can Help

Parents with Children in Public School:

Take Action Today! Download and send this letter to your school board, demanding that they incorporate foundational concepts like atoms and molecules into the curriculum. Make your voice heard and ensure your child receives the education they deserve.

Download the Letter

Teachers:

Get Involved! Join us in evaluating and advocating for a curriculum that exceeds expectations. Encourage the adoption of High Quality Instructional Material (HQIM) that goes beyond the assessment boundaries set by the NGSS standards. Together, we can enrich the educational experience for our students.

Parents with Homeschool Children:

Evaluate Your Program! Ensure that your elementary science curriculum introduces the fundamentals of atoms and molecules. Use our resources to assess and enhance your child's education, providing them with a strong foundation in science.

Evaluate Your Program

We Need Your Support

We believe education has the power to transform lives and shape the future. Together, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and excel in science. You can support our mission by following our journey, purchasing our educational books and T-shirts, and sharing our vision with your community. Let’s make a difference together!