Midland One of Texas’ largest oil and gas producers has partnered with the Museum of the Southwest to make arts education programs more accessible to young people of all ages throughout the Permian region.
The partnership will allow educational programs offered through the museum’s Turner Art Museum, Durham Children’s Museum and Blakemore Planetarium to be accessible through a variety of platforms for toddlers through teenagers. .
Midland-based Pioneer has contributed $50,000 to the initiative, which will allow the museum to offer classes to guests for free or at a nominal cost.
Rich Dealy, President and Chief Operating Officer of Pioneer Natural Resources, said: “One of the company’s enduring missions is to support the communities where our employees live and work. We are proud to be able to engage museums so that early education programs like this can thrive throughout the Permian region. I am proud of
The Museum of the Southwest is committed to engaging young people of all ages and abilities in immersive experiences that foster creativity and education.
Numerous studies have consistently found that art education from an early age improves students’ motivation, concentration and self-confidence. There is also a statistical correlation between participation in arts programs and improved performance in the classroom, including improved mathematics, reading comprehension, cognitive skills, critical thinking and language skills.
A 2021 study found that in Texas, high school students who completed more arts courses were twice as likely to graduate, 22% were more likely to attend college, and passed standardized tests. were up to 15% higher than students who took fewer art courses. State of the Arts Report by the nonprofit Texas Cultural Trust.
“We are humbled by Pioneer Natural Resources’ commitment to support this endeavor,” said Lori Wesley, executive director of the Southwest Museum. “Art is not usually thought of as critical thinking. But it is the beginning of a new way of thinking. Should the lawn always be green? Beginning, we are invested in our community through the eyes and hearts of young people.”
Programs made possible through Pioneer’s partnership with the museum include Mommy & Me classes, Works of Art, playdates, off-site outreach programs, and linking museum activities with Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) goals There are new excursion experiences.
“When your child comes on a museum excursion this year, they will not only enjoy the facilities on campus, but they will also participate in activities that support their learning in the classroom,” said Freda Tuner Durham Children’s Museum. “We need to provide balanced and engaging educational programs that nurture children’s expressiveness.
“Thank you to the pioneers for their support in making this a reality for our community,” she said.
Since its founding in 1997, Pioneer has established itself as a state and regional leader in oil and gas exploration, industry innovation and production. While growing in Texas as a large independent energy company, we have remained deeply committed to philanthropy and volunteerism in our enduring mission.
Pioneer’s support for the museum goes beyond its pocketbook. Employees regularly volunteer at numerous museum events aimed at building stronger communities through access to art. For example, at the museum’s recent Septemberfest arts festival, more than a dozen Pioneer employees volunteered to ensure the success of the annual extravaganza.
Amanda Day, Senior Government and Public Relations Advisor at Pioneer, said: “Pioneer is proud to share this compelling story with the youngest learners of the Permian period through the sponsorship of the Museum’s Children’s Art Education Program.”
