This project introduces K-12 students to the foundations of atmospheric sciences using planetarium presentations as an out-of-classroom mileau. The object of this project is to present a curriculum ensemble on the topic of thunderstorms, with a concentration on lightning. We target students in grades 4 through 8. The project uses a multi-media sky-dome program (slides, video, computer simulations). Our project is an alliance among scientists and educators with the capacity to develop, evaluate and disseminate science-based curricula. These materials are part of a pilot project using a central Texas planetarium (Tarleton State University) that services both urban and rural counties.