About
Our vision is to engage people of all ages in hands-on learning, driven by curiosity and play.
Our mission is to create a hands-on, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) based attraction that exercises curiosity, promotes exploration, and develops imagination through interactivity.
Our Board
Audie Dennis
Board President, Retired (Boyd Metals)
Stephanie Bradshaw
Board Vice-President, Freeman Health System Speech and Language Pathologist
Shelly Kraft
Board Treasurer, Kraft Insurance
Kitty Ward
Board Secretary, Retired Educator
Paula Baker
Board Member, Freeman Health System
Chad Greer
Board Member, CGA Architects
Joe Malin
Board Member, Liberty Utilities
Logan Stanley
Board Member, Edward Jones Advisors
Jamie Strickland
Board Member, Southwest Missouri Bank
Clive Veri
Board Member, Commerce Bank
Our Beginnings
The Creative Learning Alliance was built from the Vision 2022 Quality of Life Destination Committee. In May 2017, Vision Joplin 2022 presented several recommendations to the city council. These recommendations were compiled by nearly 150 community members serving on various committees: governance, health and wellness, job growth, marketing and branding, and quality of life.
Among these ideas, one concept that was well received and supported by City Council was that of a children’s museum. Since then, a group of professionals, concerned citizens and educators have been exploring, and actively pursuing, the creation of a hands-on, STEAM-based attraction.
Our Progress
- The Creative Learning Alliance has registered as a Missouri business entity, elected officers, and received nonprofit status.
- Developed a mission and vision statement.
- Raised funds to conduct a feasibility study, In October 2018, CLA held a public input session at Joplin Public Library to gauge area interest in the project.
- The board contracted with ConsultEcon, a highly recommended firm providing market, economic, business and planning services to the museum sector. ConsultEcon conducted a professional feasibility study, which assessed the community’s ability to support and sustain such a project.
- The Outreach Committee created approximately 15 entertaining and interactive exhibits to be used as educational and promotional pieces at events.
- The organization contracted with a Project Coordinator who will work towards brand identity, building donor relations, and social media development.
In the News
From Curiosity to Career: Connecting Our Community Through STEAM
By introducing youth across our region to STEAM learning, we’re preparing them to thrive in a world driven by innovation.
How Families Can Explore STEAM Learning at Home
The Backbone of STEAM: Why Mathematics Holds It All Together
Math is what gives form and balance to the entire system, the quiet force that keeps everything standing.
So… Why the Arts?
Honestly? That one little letter changes everything.
The “E” in STEAM: The Essential Role of Engineering in Learning
While science explains how the world works and technology builds new tools, engineering is what turns ideas into reality.
The “T” in STEAM: Technology as a Catalyst for Innovation in Education
While we typically think of technology as devices and machines, it extends beyond that, encompassing the application of knowledge to create tools, systems, and processes that solve problems and enhance human capabilities.
The “S” in STEAM: The Power of Science in Learning
At the very heart of the STEAM framework lies the “S” – Science, a discipline that builds the foundation for curiosity, discovery, and problem-solving.
Registration is OPEN for the 14th annual Joplin Turkey Trot!
Registration is OPEN for the 14th annual Joplin Turkey Trot!
Why is STEAM Learning Important?
Hands-on STEAM learning—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics—has become essential in preparing students for the modern world.
This post is also available in: Español (Spanish)