AMES, Iowa -- Thirty-five Iowa educators are ready to guide Iowa youth on a journey that could lead to the moon, the stars and beyond. They’re ready for the challenge because they completed Educator Astro Camp Training on May 12 in Ames.
Youth will participate in Astro Camp events across the state this summer. The training, offered by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and sponsored in part by the Iowa Space Grant Consortium, was open to any educator planning on hosting an Astro Camp in their area this year.
“This is our third year offering NASA Astro Camp training for educators across the state. We had a great time with them and look forward to seeing how they implement this training for youth in their communities,” said Sara Nelson, 4-H STEM program specialist and director of the NASA Iowa Space Grant Consortium. “It was an energizing day that showcased the wonder of space.”
Astro Camp allows youth to get involved in and experience science, technology, engineering and mathematics, also known as STEM. Astro Camp aims to inspire future astronauts and engineers as they learn about space with unique NASA activities.
The educators learned about NASA’s work and how to teach Astro Camp lessons. All participants received an Astro Camp materials kit. Educators also learned about NASA-connected research here in Iowa from Josh Sebree, associate professor at the University of Northern Iowa, and heard from Astro Camp Advisory Committee members Emily Damro and Sadie Welter.
“Astro Camp is a great way to help youth foster career dreams of tomorrow and develop life-changing goals through next generation science, math and engineering skills,” Nelson said.
For more information on Astro Camp, please contact your ISU Extension and Outreach county office or visit the Iowa 4-H website at www.extension.iastate.edu/4h/nasa-astro-camp.
Sharable Images and Captions:
Photo 1: 2023 Astro Camp Training educators gather for a group photo.
Photo 2: Participants pose with NASA cutouts during Educator Astro Camp Training.
Photo 3: Participants demonstrate the Stomp Rocket Lesson during Educator Astro Camp Training.
