From One Idea to Thousands of Smiles: How a Grassroots Science Festival Transformed Del Norte

Written By True North

June 2025

It began with one idea, one school, and one powerful question…

What started as a conversation at Smith River School—a parent leader dreaming of immersive learning experiences for students—grew into something far bigger than anyone imagined. Over four days, that idea came to life across Del Norte County.

Behind the scenes, True North Organizers Andromeda Lopez and Mica Brooks had what they jokingly called a “mad scientist” idea: What if we could bring together partners from across the region to create something bold, hands-on, and truly countywide?

Their idea wasn’t just ambitious, it was actionable. With collaboration from community allies and district administrators, the vision expanded from one school to include all 12 public schools in Del Norte County.

The event was made possible by the Klamath Promise Neighborhood (KPN) initiative—a federally funded effort led by the Yurok Tribe to support youth and family success in Del Norte. As part of the initiative, all eight KPN-funded schools received participatory budgeting funds—and each site chose to use a portion to support the Science Festival.

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) joined the effort, traveling across the region to host science assemblies at school sites and immersive experiences at the Del Norte County Fairgrounds. On Saturday, May 3, the festival culminated in a full-scale community-wide event, open to families, friends, and neighbors.

More than 3,800 students, families, educators, and community members came together across the four days to explore science, connect with one another, and celebrate the power of science and possibility.

From Spark to Action

The original goal was simple: bring school sites together to enjoy a shared learning opportunity. But the idea gained momentum quickly, fueled by True North’s organizing model and the leadership of parents and community partners. 

Working alongside Del Norte Unified School District (DNUSD) and Klamath Promise Neighborhood, the planning team envisioned something bigger: a multi-day, county-wide science festival rooted in access and community voice.

Planning began in Fall 2024. By Spring, the vision had attracted a strong group of collaborators including OMSI, Mobile Ed Productions, and local groups like Redwoods Wonder Forge, The Redwood Parks Conservancy, and others. What started as a dream became a coordinated reality.

A Festival Across 4 Days

Over three days, 3,300 students experienced assemblies full of experiments and demonstrations—some hosted on-site at their schools, others transported to the fairgrounds. On Saturday, May 3, the fairgrounds opened to the public for a full-day celebration of science. More than 500 community members registered, and many more came throughout the day, bringing the total to over 3,000 attendees.

Highlights included:

  • Interactive exhibits and science shows from OMSI and Mobile Ed

  • Local science educators and cultural groups

  • The Arts and Crafts Building was filled with toddler play zones, sound exploration, snacks, a lactation station, and community resources

  • Healthy food, giveaways, and school-wide transportation ensuring students from all sites could participate

  • Youth volunteers who helped decorate and lead with enthusiasm

Educators reported that even the youngest students called it the “best thing ever.” Principals expressed appreciation for the planning, logistics, and impact. For many families, this was their first time participating in a school event—and they were at the heart of it.

One parent called the experience “beautiful.”

“We stayed almost the whole day,” she said. “It was so engaging. My son had a blast, and the free snacks were such a thoughtful addition. I hope this happens again.”

Lessons and Reflections

The feedback? Overwhelmingly positive. No major complaints. Just momentum. 

While a few logistical challenges surfaced—like unclear signage and minor communication gaps—organizers and partners praised the teamwork, creativity, and adaptable problem-solving across the board.

One small story captured the heart of it all: a student took home a box of leftover oranges and, with a few friends, delivered them door-to-door in their mobile home park. Eleven households received fresh fruit—and a whole lot of heart.

The key takeaway: this happened because everyone worked together. School staff, transportation providers, parents, volunteers, youth, and partners all helped carry the vision. 

“There’s nothing about the planning of this event that’s been problematic on the district side. It went really well. The district would love to support this again.” —Tom Kissinger, Assistant Superintendent, DNUSD

What’s Next?

The team is asking a simple question again: Could this happen every year? 

A single day community-wide event could cost up to $15,000 to repeat. To make it sustainable, partners will need to co-invest—not just financially, but with time, leadership, and community power. 

Because this wasn’t just a science event. It was a living example of what’s possible when a community comes together—co-created by parents, powered by organizing, and rooted in the belief that every child deserves the world.

It began with a question, and ends with one too: What do you want your community to look like—when possibility leads the way?

You can also watch a video and read Redwood Voices article about the Science Festival HERE.

True North