An astronaut enters the hatch to venture into space. Elements of this image provided by NASA. (3D render) Photo Credit: GETTY IMAGES
The V.I. Department of Education’s Division of STEAM Education, in collaboration with the St. Croix District, St. Thomas-St. John District, Friends of the Virgin Islands National Park, and the Virgin Islands Montessori School and Peter Gruber International Academy, has announced a renewed partnership with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) through the Kennedy Space Center.
From December 9–11, 2024, NASA will host a series of interactive events across St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas to engage students and the broader community in STEM learning and exploration, according to the V.I. Department of Education.
The collaboration seeks to inspire students in the Virgin Islands to pursue careers in STEM by providing hands-on learning experiences and direct interaction with NASA professionals.
“This renewed collaboration with NASA highlights the Department’s dedication to creating meaningful, hands-on learning experiences for our students and community. We are proud to bring NASA back to the Territory and inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators,” said Shamika S. Williams, state STEM director.
Program Schedule by Island
St. Croix: December 9–11, 2024
December 9
- St. Croix Educational Complex High School/CTEC: 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
- Juanita Gardine PreK-8 School: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Lew Muckle Elementary School: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
December 10
- Central High School: 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
- John H. Woodson Junior High School: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Alfredo Andrews Elementary School: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Community Evening Event (John H. Woodson): 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
December 11
- Eulalie Rivera PreK-8 School: 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
- Claude O. Markoe Elementary School: 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
- Ricardo Richards Elementary School: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Pearl B. Larsen PreK-8 School: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
St. John: December 9–11, 2024
December 9, 10, and 11
- NASA Booth at Cruz Bay Visitor Center: 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
December 11
- Julius E. Sprauve Elementary School: 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
- Gift Hill School: 12:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
- Explore the Night Sky at Cinnamon Bay Campground: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
St. Thomas: December 9–11, 2024
December 9
- Ivanna Eudora Kean High School: 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
- Jane E. Tuitt Elementary School: 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
- Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
- Joseph Gomez Elementary School: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
December 10
- Lockhart K-8 School: 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
- Yvonne Milliner Bowsky Elementary School: 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
- Charlotte Amalie High School: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
- Community Evening Event (Virgin Islands Montessori School & Peter Gruber International Academy): 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
December 11
- Ulla F. Muller Elementary School: 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
- Joseph Sibilly Elementary School: 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
- Virgin Islands Montessori School & Peter Gruber International Academy: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
- Antilles School: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Students and community members will have a rare opportunity to interact with NASA scientists, engineers, and other STEM professionals. These engagements will provide insights into space exploration, cutting-edge technology, and pathways to STEM careers.
The events are designed to empower students and provide them with tools and knowledge to thrive in a global, innovation-driven economy.
For more information, community members are encouraged to reach out to the following VIDE officials:
- Dr. Shamika Williams: [email protected]
- Joann Lewis: [email protected]
- Kandiss Benjamin: [email protected]
- Michealrose Ravalier: [email protected]
