NASA Kicks Off New Summer Of Innovation Initiative
WASHINGTON -- NASA Administrator Charles Bolden kicked off the
agency's new Summer of Innovation initiative Thursday while at the
Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calf.
The Summer of Innovation program will engage thousands of middle
school students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics
(STEM) during the summer months when many students experience what's known as the "summer slide," a loss of skills acquired during the
school year. The program is a cornerstone of the Educate to Innovate
campaign announced by President Obama last November.
About 250 middle school students from the Los Angeles area
participated in the kickoff festivities, which included an
opportunity to interact with astronauts, NASA scientists and
engineers, several hands-on educational activities; and a visit to
the facility where the next Mars rover is being built. The students
also were treated to musical entertainment provided by actor/rapper
Daniel Curtis Lee.
"It is wonderful to feel the excitement generated by these students as
they experienced first-hand what fascinating and challenging
opportunities exist for students who follow STEM career paths," said
Administrator Bolden. "I hope that by getting these students involved
in NASA's missions and programs now, it may pave the way for a new
generation of scientists and engineers, which is critically important
to our nation's future."
NASA's Summer of Innovation program is a broad, nationwide effort that
will leverage partnerships with academia, industry and government.
This program and the agency's other education programs support NASA's
commitment to excellence in science, technology, engineering and
mathematics, which will play a key role in preparing, inspiring,
encouraging and nurturing the nation's future work force.
To learn more about this program and the opportunities available,
visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/soi
For information about NASA education programs, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/education
Source: NASA
