More than 250 students at Bloom Elementary in Louisville, KY, teamed up with chemistry adventurer Ion Jones on a global quest to explore rainforests, deserts, glaciers, ancient temples and prehistoric carbon deposits. While the journey – made possible by PPG Industries Foundation with support from the Community Foundation of Louisville and DDW “The Color House” – is imaginary, the science involved is real.

Led by Ion Jones (a parody of the “Indiana Jones” movie hero), “Ion Jones & the Lost Castle of Chemistry” is a 45-minute, interactive traveling science show. Initially created by Carnegie Science Center of Pittsburgh with support from PPG, the show teaches students how chemistry affects industry, technology and the environment. By the time students reach the Lost Castle, they have explored and observed chemistry in action courtesy of a fiery volcano, a cola geyser, an exploding hydrogen-filled balloon and other experiments.

This all-new chemistry-themed outreach program – which includes a science show, hands-on activities and pre- and post-program materials about chemistry and chemical reactions – will be available to travel to schools and other locations throughout the region.

“The need to inspire and embed a culture of science literacy in Kentucky is crucial to the future of the region. Our strategic plan, ‘Unbridled Science,’ responds to that need by challenging us to reach more students beyond the borders of our building. This dynamic new program does just that,” said Science Center Executive Director Joanna Haas. “With support from PPG, a Fund for Louisville capacity-building grant from the Community Foundation of Louisville and D.D. Williamson, we are launching ‘Ion Jones,’ a self-sustaining, on-the-road program that will introduce students across the region to the critical discipline of science and inspire them to become lifelong learners.”

This program will join the ranks of the Science Center’s other successful traveling outreach program, “Captain Current vs. The Electricity Vampires,” powered by LG&E and KU. After over two years of traveling, Captain Current has reached more than 10,500 students around the region.

“PPG is thrilled to help expand ‘Ion Jones’ to the Kentucky Science Center. We are strongly committed to enhancing educational initiatives that garner interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) such as the Kentucky Science Center programs,” said Sue Sloan, executive director, PPG Industries Foundation. “We are excited to bring this program to Bloom Elementary and other schools in the Louisville area, and we hope it helps students experience how fun and exciting science and technology can be.”

“Ion Jones & the Lost Castle of Chemistry includes up to 10 hands-on activity stations where students explore and learn chemical processes, reactions, and how to use chemicals safely. The program also incorporates curriculum connections relevant for grades K-8 and can be tailored to each audience’s needs.

The program is offered at various pricing levels for experiences serving up to 500 students. For booking and additional information, visit KYScienceCenter.org or call 502-561-6100, ext. 6111.