Image courtesy from https://www.nasa.gov
Challenger was a milestone. The first civilian, the first teacher, and I would say the first STEM teacher, Christa McAuliffe, was chosen from a pool of thousands to represent our very best educators and to inspire students, like myself, to “Reach for the stars.”
The entire crew was ready to change the course of STEM education and I really feel that despite the tremendous loss of life that day, those brave astronauts made a lasting difference. For me personally, I was honored to have received the Arizona Challenger Space Center Educator of the Year Award. I share my enthusiasm for aerospace science with my students and want them to continue the passion I have for “reaching for the stars”.
My STS-51-L mission patch is proudly worn on my flight suit. I love the apple sitting next to the teacher’s name.
Another Challenger crew member that has impacted my life is Ronald McNair. Mrs. Thomas had an assignment for Black History Month and I chose to draw the portraits of famous black Americans, but my reference book was missing Astronaut McNair, so I couldn’t include him in my school project. I still admired him for being the second African American to fly into space and his intention of playing the saxophone on board the Challenger. I started learning the saxophone a year later.
Ronald’s brother worked with StoryCorps to create a short animated piece about segregation and inspiration. Eyes on the Stars is a very touching video which shares a story that took place when I was Ronald’s age. “Science Possibility” is the theme.
It’s been nearly 40 years and we have learned that education, determination, and inspiration are all important for success. I know I have been inspired by the Challenger crew.
As Christa McAuliffe said, “I touch the future. I teach.”
Artwork by Amelia
Artwork by Amelia
Just the other day, one of my 2nd grade students shyly handed me the best gift a teacher can receive (see below). I will continue the legacy of those who have gone before me to inspire our young people to eventually become the inspiration for the next generation. Astronauts continue to challenge us and that is why we must celebrate, because #SpaceInspires!
Written by Jeff Herold – STEM Educator & Higher Orbits supporter
