The mission of Fernbank Science Center is to provide extraordinary STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) instruction, exhibits, opportunities and experiences to the DeKalb County School District, the local community and beyond. The science center is dedicated to science literacy and life-long science learning for all people and all ages.

The students of the DeKalb County School District receive instruction from science specialists that is aligned to the Georgia Standards or Excellence for science, but goes beyond regular classroom instruction. Programming is designed to motivate and inspire students to learn more about how science and scientists work and to encourage student achievement in science.

Teachers are provided professional learning opportunities that are designed by Fernbank Science Center instructors. These programs, experiences and workshops are content-based and grade/area specific.

Community based programming is developed as part of Fernbank Science Center’s dedication to continued life-long learners of science for the entire family, and includes exhibits, special programming in the evening or on Saturday and other learning opportunities. These programs are intended to connect the scientific community with the public to promote a better understanding of science.