Dear Parents,
Students from Franklin Regional Middle School will have the opportunity to live the life of a NASA Mission Control specialist, not by reading a book or watching a video, but rather through first-hand experience with simulated space missions at Wheeling Jesuit University’s Challenger Learning Center in Wheeling, W. Va.
From navigating a safe and successful probe launch to solving a life-threatening radiation problem, students truly have the opportunity to “walk in the shoes” of NASA engineers for a day filled with imagination, creativity, and discovery.
“The overall goal of the mission is to improve the student’s problem solving skills and to enhance their creative and critical thinking ability,” Said by Jackie Shia, Director of the Challenge Center. “The mission also goes a step further to foster teamwork and plants the seeds of long-term interest in science and math.”
The center offers two simulated experiences for students: working in the space station during orbit and working with Mission Control, an operational hub modeled after NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.
During the two hour mission, students will serve on one of eight teams. Through the power of imagination and the excitement of discovery, students will assume the roles of NASA engineers and scientists to monitor astronaut vital signs, analyze test results, and solve problems, all to ensure a successful space mission.
“All teams must work together to reach a common goal and each student plays an integral part in making this happen.” Says Shia “It’s amazing to see the energy that’s created among these kids as they learn more about the importance of math and science.”
Mrs. Ritson and Mr. Danny were hesitant at first to go on this mission because of cost and distance, however after taking everything into consideration, feel that this is an opportunity not to be missed! We wanted to send this letter to you early so we could make the necessary arrangements that would allow everyone to attend. The Cost of $17.00 will cover the entire mission and transportation. If any of you find this price not in your budget at this time, please notify Mrs. Ritson or Mr. Danny and steps will be taken to ensure that every child has an opportunity to attend. Students will only have time for a bag lunch. There will be an opportunity to purchase souvenirs. We also wanted to give you extra time to make preparations to have your child at school by 6:50 AM for an early departure. We will be back for regular dismissal.
Students in the BCK House will be going on Wednesday, April 6th and Panther Pit House will be going on Thursday, April 7th. If you have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate to call or email us.
Sincerely,
AJ Danny
Margie Ritson