When Windsong Intermediate’s fifth grade science/social studies/technology teacher April Davis shares her summer vacation with her new classes, she will have much to share. This summer Davis was an astronaut.
            Davis’ mission was a simulated one as part of her week at Space Camp, courtesy of The Boeing Company.

           Each year, Boeing partners with the U.S. Space & Rocket Center to sponsor educators from around the world at its Space Camp facility in Huntsville, Ala. This year is the 18th anniversary of Boeing Educators to Space Camp. Since its origin in 1992, approximately 700 teachers have participated in Boeing’s annual program, reaching more than 30,000-plus students.
            Nelda Guerra, Windsong principal, submitted Davis’ name for the program. Davis was accepted and among more than 75 teachers from 10 countries participating in the weeklong course. According to The Boeing Company, the camp continues to expand the diverse, global network of educators attending Space Camp.
            “We want to work with the world’s educators to inspire students and use space exploration as a way to help spark their interest in math and science,” said Rick Stephens, Boeing senior vice president of Human Resources and Administration. “By sponsoring Educators to Space Camp, Boeing is helping the students of today become the citizens of the future and the next generation of scientists, engineers and space explorers.”
            Davis found the diverse membership to be the most memorable of her experiences while at camp.
            “It was so interesting to meet people from all over the world and hear about their experiences as teachers. We still keep in touch!” Davis said.
            The experiences at camp also affected her in a personal way.
            “My dad worked for NASA up to the day he passed. He was an aircraft mechanic and worked on the shuttle numerous times,” Davis said. “It was very special for me to get to experience some of things he worked with on a daily basis and share in what he loved to do. I am forever grateful to FISD for allowing me that opportunity.”
            According to publication Boeing Frontiers, the Space Camp program uses space exploration initiatives to enhance teachers’ skills in presenting math, science and technology lessons that will inspire students—and ultimately help build a skilled work force for a globally competitive technology market. 
Throughout their week at camp, the teachers participate in hands-on workshops that include simulated space missions and astronaut training as well as presentations by rocketry and space-exploration experts. The workshops help bring the excitement of real-world engineering challenges to levels suitable for students so they can better understand scientific and mathematical principles.
            Davis was actively involved in the camp and at one point had to overcome her fears.
            “I am terrified of heights and as one of our challenges we had to climb a 50ft wall and jump off! I did it, but I had my eyes closed the whole way down,” Davis said.
            The teachers also receive resources to include with what they teach in their classrooms to help students meet national standards for science, math and technology.
            “I got many great tools to use in the classroom and fun ideas that incorporate the space program into our curriculum. I hope to spark and interest in my students to become future engineers,” Davis said. “You do not have to work in the control room or be an astronaut to work in the space industry. There really is a job for anyone whether you enjoy building things, drawing, or problem solving. The possibilities are endless!”
            Boeing’s support of Space Camp aligns with the company’s community investment focus area in primary-secondary education, which promotes the professional development of teachers and provides them with the tools and resources they need to help improve student performance. (from Boeing Frontiers).