YES! IN THE NEWS
Celebrating curiosity, community, and the stories that share our journey.
Yavapai Exploration and Science is proud to be featured in local media for our innovative programs, community outreach, and commitment to inspiring curiosity through hands-on STEAM learning. Explore articles, interviews, and stories that showcase how YES! is making an impact in Yavapai County and beyond.
By Nanci Hutson, The Daily Courier
Local educator/mother dreaming big about launching a science center in downtown Prescott
Apr 5, 2025 Updated Apr 5, 2025 -
A wombat is the only mammal that excretes cube-shaped poop.
​
A rollercoaster thrill ride is a physics lesson – centripetal force, inertia, gravity, and centrifugal force, combine to offer the often stomach-churning experience.
​
Albert Einstein isn’t the only scientist to make profound discoveries about how the universe works.
​
A virtual unknown 20th century female astronomer, Annie Jump Cannon, revolutionized how fellow scientists classify the mystery of twinkling stars in the night sky. Her discoveries earned her the moniker “Census Taker of the Sky.”
​
Not to worry. This is not a quiz.
Bold Journey
Meet Amanda Voss
Finding my purpose for founding Yavapai Exploration and Science (YES!) was a journey deeply rooted in both my professional experiences and personal aspirations. After spending 15 years in the classroom, holding roles from teacher to principal, I had the privilege of working with children of various ages and seeing firsthand the incredible potential they bring to learning. However, over the years, I witnessed a shift in the educational landscape that left me concerned.
​
The focus in schools, both public and charter, began to drift away from nurturing a genuine love for learning—one that fuels curiosity and inspires lifelong exploration—and moved toward a rigid adherence to standardized curricula. The joy and creativity that once defined education seemed increasingly overshadowed by metrics and mandates. It was disheartening to see how this impacted not only the students but also the educators and families involved.
​
​
Empowering Women Got a Minute Podcast
Pivoting and Saying 'YES!' with Amanda Voss
Amanda has over 15 years of education experience and a Master’s of Education from Ohio State University. She is currently launching Yavapai Exploration and Science (YES!) in Prescott. YES! aims to inspire curiosity and appreciation for science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) through programs, workshops, and events. Amanda’s goal is to create opportunities for all ages to explore the natural world, unlock creativity, and embrace lifelong learning. Her background includes teaching at the primary level and various administrative roles. Her passion for education extends to her hobbies, such as mountain biking, traveling, and camping with her family. Through YES!, Amanda envisions making STEAM education accessible and inclusive for everyone, whether through hands-on experiments, interactive exhibits, or community outreach initiatives.
​
Amanda is also the 2024 Prescott Woman STEAM Award Recipient.