UT Elementary had a truly out-of-this-world experience on March 24th as they hosted an incredible Space Day, welcomed NASA, the Texas Space Commission, Lockheed Martin, and the UT College of Education for a day of hands-on, STEM-focused exploration. From Pre-K to 5th grade, students engaged in activities to ignite their passion for STEAM and space education!
Throughout the day, students had the opportunity to:
- Explore a giant interactive moon map, learning about lunar geography and space missions!
- Navigate robot rover missions, simulating challenges faced by actual NASA engineers on Mars and beyond!
- Walk through the NASA Space Trailer, diving into the history and future of space travel, including the upcoming Artemis II launch!
- Experience a VR simulation of life in orbit, viewing space from an astronaut’s perspective!
- Engage in space-themed lessons across the campus from various teachers!
One of the most exciting highlights of the day was the rare chance for students to see and touch a genuine moon rock, one of only eight in the world available for public interaction! This hands-on experience gave students a tangible connection to space history and fueled their curiosity about the world!
With a legacy of space innovation, the NASA Johnson Space Center has played a pivotal role in historic moments, from landing astronauts on the Moon to building the International Space Station. Their presence at UT Elementary provided students with a firsthand look at the possibilities awaiting them in STEM fields.
The STEAM Program at UT Elementary, a flagship “Margin of Excellence” program, was selected to host this event in recognition of its exceptional reputation for providing innovative, hands-on learning experiences. As one of the only elementary schools in the capital area offering a comprehensive STEAM program from Pre-K to 5th grade, UT Elementary provides students with a unique early start in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.
This incredible day was made possible thanks to the support of esteemed educators, sponsors, and guests, including:
- Lockheed Martin
- NASA’s Johnson Space Center
- NASA’s Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs (OLIA)
- NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM)
- NASA’s Orion Spacecraft Program
- NASA’s Texas High School Aerospace Program Scholars
- The Texas Education Agency (TEA)
- The Texas Education Service Center (Region 13)
- The Texas Space Commission
- UT College of Education, especially Dean Martinez and Dr. Victor Saenz
- UT Elementary Faculty & Staff
Here’s to the future explorers, dreamers, and problem-solvers who will one day reach for the stars! 🚀✨
