Special to the JR
Rep. Tracy Estes, R-Winfield, has announced middle school students in House District 17 may apply for one of two scholarships to attend space camp at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville.
Students will be selected to participate in the one-week event from either June 22-27, July 13-18 or July 20-25. With the exception of transportation to and from the facility, the total cost of the camp will be covered through grants provided by the Alabama Legislature. The scholarships will cover the cost of tuition, room and board, educational material and a flight suit. Previous participants are not allowed to apply.
Students ages 12-14 may apply for the scholarships known as SALSA (Space Academy for Learning Students in Alabama). The program is designed to promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics education. Leadership skills are also a focus of the program.
During the weeklong experience at Space Academy, students will work as a team to solve complex problems using STEM concepts and 21st century learning skills, learn to train like an astronaut using authentic simulators and embark on their own simulated space mission to the International Space Station, the moon and Mars.
Students will engage with Alabama’s legacy while learning about the subjects and careers they can pursue to become part of the future of science and exploration. According to a survey of space camp alumni, 64 percent take additional STEM courses and 61 report entering a STEM field of study or career.
Interested students must apply online at rocketcenter.com/SpaceCamp/Alabama/SpaceAcademy. For additional information, parents may email SALSA@spacecamp.com. Information may also be obtained through local school counselors across House District 17. The deadline to apply has been set for March 31. Students must complete the online application and school verification form to be eligible. The two students chosen will be notified in April.
Estes represents Marion, Lamar and a portion of Winston County.
“Space camp represents a unique opportunity for our students across the district,’’ Estes said. “My sole purpose in providing this information is to make this opportunity available to all who have an interest.
“I have friends whose children have attended space camp and used the knowledge gained there to eventually pursue careers in aerospace and other similar sciences.
“Opportunities such as these can be used as a reminder to our students that those who live in a small community, such as those I represent, can achieve great things. I hope a number of our students will apply and see where this might lead. I want our students to never be fearful to pursue the highest of goals. I have full confidence our district will provide two outstanding candidates to be chosen for this program.’’
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