Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students Reach for the Stars at Space Camp
By Becky Perkins
About the author:
Becky Perkins is the school counselor for deaf and hard of hearing students in the Columbus Public Schools in Columbus, Ohio. She holds a B.S. in deaf education from Kent State University and an M.A. in school counseling from Gallaudet University.
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Every year, deaf and hard of hearing students study rockets, the solar system, and the laws of the universe at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama. Students have the option of choosing a program where they can experience state-of-the-art space simulations, such as mock shuttle missions, rocket building, jet simulations and flight dynamics, and robotics. In addition, all students take classes at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center museum and Rocket Park, where rockets once used by NASA are displayed.
There are three options: Students ages 9-11 years old attend Space Camp; students ages 12-18 years old attend Space Academy; and students ages 9-18 years old can participate in Aviation Challenge. In addition, students ages 15-18 years old can attend Advanced Space Academy, where they scuba dive to experience the feel of 1/6 gravity of the Earth and receive an hour of freshman-level general science credit from the University of Alabama-Huntsville.
In addition to adventurous hands-on learning that helps stimulate their interest in math, science, and technology, students also increase their self-esteem by working together in teams that have individual decision-making opportunities. Alumni have stated that the program has encouraged them to take more classes in science and math and pursue careers in those areas.
Students practice their flying skills in the space shuttle mock-up. |
By the end of the week-long camp, both campers and chaperones have developed a feeling of togetherness. Each person leaves feeling enthusiastic and motivated.
Space Camp, Space Academy, and Aviation Challenge for deaf and hard of hearing students occur during the first week of May every year. The cost is $675. This includes all meals, lodging, program materials, and activities. Some scholarships are available; however, most students and chaperones fundraise and write grants.
To learn more about how your class or group can attend these camps, go to the Space Camp website. You may also contact Amy Newland, director of International Space Camp for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students, at amn01wpd@wpsd.org or (412) 371-7000, ext. 691.
Other News Stories in This Issue:
9th Annual Illinois Statewide Deaf FingerSpelling Bee
Essay and Art Contest Winners Announced
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