Scholarships blast off for space camp

Many children dream of being astronauts, but for children ages 12-14, that dream could become a reality for one week through the Space Academy for Leading Students in Alabama.

Rep. Jamie Kiel announced two scholarships for space camp will be available for students who live in Franklin, Colbert or Lauderdale counties.

The scholarship will cover the entire cost of tuition, room and board for the camp in Huntsville at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center.

“The importance of science, technology, engineering and math cannot be emphasized enough,” Kiel said. “I want to be sure that our students in rural Alabama have the same opportunity to attend space camp as other kids in the state.”

Kiel said space camp is funded every year through the Alabama Legislature for students to learn more about STEM careers. Students will also learn the history of the space program and hone their critical thinking as they work together to solve STEM problems.

They will also experience training like an astronaut, including using authentic simulators and completing missions.

Students may apply through their school counselor or through www.spacecamp.com/salsa. The deadline to apply is Feb. 27.

Students will be notified whether they received the scholarship in March, and space camp will take place in May.

“I would suggest parents encourage students who are either interested in STEM now or students who might become interested in STEM due to this camp to apply immediately,” Kiel said. “This experience might open the eyes of a future scientist, astronaut, doctor or engineer.”