Empowering the Next Generation of Explorers

Empowering the Next Generation of Explorers is a program that uses space science and technology to provide informal STEM education and STEM career inspiration for students in regional Head Start programs, as well as underrepresented/underserved student groups in schools with a high Native American student population.  The program is run by the staff of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, the Official Visitor Center for NASA Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama.  The goal of Empowering the Next Generation of Explorers is to educate students about NASA’s overall mission, raise student interest and engagement in STEM subjects, and make students aware of STEM career opportunities.  In 2012, 252 third through fifth grade students and 344 Head Start children participated in this program.  Empowering the Next Generation of Explorers consists of an annual Native American Heritage Day and an annual Head Start Field Trip Day.  On Native American Heritage Day, students participate in a guided field trip of the USSRC’s collection of space hardware and artifacts and take part in a hands-on STEM workshop, which includes elements from Native American Culture.  Students also hear about the past, present and future of Native Americans in NASA programs, talk with Native American employees of MSFC, and watch  a presentation on Native American culture.  Head Start Day consists of a guided tour of the USSRC, including hands-on STEM-based activities for pre-K students about NASA’s current missions, like the Mars Curiosity Rover.

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