Compiled by SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
The Cook Museum of Natural Science in Decatur has been officially designated the North Alabama STEM Center and will receive $9.5 million in state education funding to expand its science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) programs and facilities.
Governor Kay Ivey made the announcement Monday, highlighting the museum’s growing role in STEM education throughout the region.
“Alabama’s future depends on our ability to prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow, and STEM education is key to that effort,” Ivey said. “This significant state investment reflects the outstanding work the Cook Museum of Natural Science has accomplished in STEM education. This expansion will undoubtedly strengthen educational opportunities for students and support workforce development in one of the state’s fastest-growing regions.”
Cook Museum Executive Director Scott Mayo said the funding will enable the museum to expand its interactive learning labs and curriculum-based programming, which currently serves more than 18,000 students annually across 21 counties, including over 7,000 in classes and camps aligned with the Alabama Course of Study.
“This investment enables increased access and programming for students in the North Alabama region,” Mayo said. “Gov. Ivey’s commitment to preparing the state’s STEM workforce aligns with our mission, and we’re excited to serve students with greater scope and capacity.”
State Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey emphasized the museum’s strategic location and existing impact.
“Four of the fastest-growing school districts are in North Alabama, and we continue to attract and grow STEM-related workforce opportunities,” Mackey said. “The Cook Museum is already an excellent resource for educators and school systems, particularly for elementary students.”
Decatur Mayor Tab Bowling praised the designation and state support, saying it enhances the city’s reputation as a hub for education and innovation.
“The City of Decatur is honored to have the Cook Museum in our downtown,” Bowling said. “This designation enhances Decatur’s reputation as a city that values education, innovation, and the future of our children.”
The museum traces its roots to 1968 when John Cook Sr. opened his private insect collection to the public. Originally used for employee training at Cook’s Pest Control, the collection expanded in 1980 to include wildlife, fossils, minerals, and migratory birds—attracting more than 750,000 visitors before closing in 2016.
Reopened in 2019 as a 62,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility, the Cook Museum now features live animal exhibits, aquariums, and hands-on science experiences designed to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders.