2012 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416): The objective of this cooperative agreement is to develop science education curricula and outreach programs for K-12 students, teachers, and the general public in the southwestern U.S. and Mexico Border Region. 1b.Approach (from AD-416): The Jornada Experimental Range has worked closely with the Asombro Institute for Science Education (formerly the Chihuhuan Desert Nature Park) since 1997 to develop science-based education materials and technology transfer programs for over 50,000 students, teachers, and adults in this region. This agreement will continue their activities and facilitate grant activities the Asombro Institute. 3.Progress Report: The JER staff provided more than 300 hours of time supporting K-12 educational programs organized by the Asombro Institute during the 2012 reporting period. Science programs developed and presented through the Asombro Institute reached over 15,000 students, teachers, and adults in the 2011-2012 academic year. Of particular significance was our collaboration in a new project, the Desert Data Jam, involving local high school students. Over 40 teams of high school students competed in a judged competition in creative and effective displays of historic long-term data collected by our research program. All activities were coordinated by ADODR working with Executive Director of the Asombro Institute. These science literacy activities, supported by the ARS, have resulted in improved science test scores of participating students.