These checks from USA were delivered to Space Foundation Teacher Liaisons who applied for the first-time grant by submitting student project plans to promote science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) subjects in the classroom. Teacher Liaisons competed for the grant by creating space-based classroom lessons and activities around the theme, Human Space Travel in the Year 2020, and submitting a plan that outlined materials needed, estimated cost and learning objectives. There were 22 applications submitted and, according to USA, the competition was very close. The results were so impressive that instead of offering one $5,000 grant as originally planned, USA also awarded a second grant. By selecting an additional project, the grants will benefit elementary, middle and high school levels in two different school districts.
"The project plans were so innovative and sustainable that we found it impossible to select just one," said Dan Brandenstein, USA executive vice president and chief operating officer. "We had the opportunity to help inspire many more students than we originally thought possible, and we're glad we were in the position to give the extra grant." One grant was awarded to a team of four teachers from Center, Colo.:
- Gail Martinez, Skoglund Middle School
- Kathleen Newmyer, Center Consolidated School District
- Diego Martinez and Daniel Newmyer, Center High School
- The other grant was awarded to Stephanie Kawamura of Pine Lane Elementary-North, Parker, Colo. Kawamura received the good news about the grant by phone in her classroom when Brandenstein called to inform and congratulate her.