Washington State must empower a new generation of leaders with the scientific literacy and skills to contribute to the vitality of our community. This panel discussion will explore how experiences inside and outside the classroom can get young children excited about science, motivating them to embrace science in middle school, high school, and beyond. Featured panelists include moderator John Haskin, Senior Vice President for Education at IslandWood; Dan Gallagher, Science Coordinator for Seattle school district; Christine Benita, Educator at Hazel Wolf K-8 E-STEM School; and Andy Shouse, Associate Director of the University of Washington’s Institute for Science and Math Education.