In the vast expanse of the universe, two educators from Claremore Public Schools embarked on a journey at the Space Exploration Educators Conference (SEEC) at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX. Ashley Henry and Michelle Rahn, alums of Claremore Public Schools, recently had the opportunity to immerse themselves in space exploration at The SEEC Conference. Their mission is to cultivate their skills and knowledge further enriching their educational toolkit to inspire and empower their students.
Their journey commenced with a private tour of Missions Control with astronaut Col. Nicole Mann. During their visit to Mission Control, they witnessed the intricate operations of the International Space Station. Accompanied by Astronaut Col. Nicole Mann (NASA SpaceX Crew 5 Mission), they observed the behind-the-scenes activities at the heart of it all. A special tour and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity allowed them to witness a live interview that was taking place with current ISS astronaut Loral O'Hara.
While on tour at Mission Control with astronaut Nicole Mann, our Claremore teachers were able to ask her questions their students had formulated about her mission last year on the ISS. While with our Zebra educators, astronaut Mann gave Claremore students a BIG "Shout Out"! She also answered the question asked by a Claremore student, “What did it feel like coming back to Earth?” Col. Mann answered that they are lifted out of the capsule because they don’t have to use their legs immediately after returning to Earth. Astronaut Col Nicole Mann left an impression on Henry and Rahn, igniting more curiosity they would carry back to their students here at Claremore.
Encounters with astronauts such as Jessica Meir and Luca Parmitano further deepened their understanding of space exploration's possibilities. They had firsthand experience diving with astronaut trainers and touring onsite training areas like the Neutral Buoyancy Lab and Space Vehicle Mockup Facility (Bldg 9).
Mrs. Rahn and Ms. Henry both presented sessions at the SEEC conference to teachers from around the world, sharing their passion for space exploration and authentic STEM learning. Ms. Henry shared about Claremore’s own Astronaut Stuart Roosa, and Moon Trees.
Returning to Claremore, Henry and Rahn shared their experiences with their students, aiming to ignite a passion for STEM subjects. They incorporated anecdotes and insights from their journey, turning their classrooms into hubs of exploration and inspiration. They emphasize the power of education in transcending boundaries and unlocking the potential of STEM, echoing Carl Sagan's belief that "Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known."
Through their dedication, Henry and Rahn contribute to the future of space exploration and inspire Zebra students to dream big.
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d Rahn contribute to the future of space exploration and inspire our Zebra students to dream big.
