Colorado SKIES Academy Educators Selected for NASA's LiftOff Summer Institute

Two educators from Colorado SKIES Academy have been selected to participate in NASA's LiftOff Summer Institute, a prestigious professional development program that promises to bring cutting-edge space exploration insights directly into the classroom.

Mary Gispan and Craig Kemper will attend the week-long institute in Houston, Texas, from June 23–27, 2025. The program, hosted by NASA's Texas Space Grant Consortium and the Center for Space Research at The University of Texas at Austin, will provide educators with unique opportunities to engage directly with NASA scientists and engineers.

During the institute, Gispan and Kemper will tour advanced aerospace facilities and participate in hands-on STEM activities designed to translate real-world space exploration experiences into classroom curriculum. The Colorado Space Grant Consortium is supporting their participation by covering accommodations, meals, local transportation, and facility tours.

Campus Director Meredith Motley emphasized the significance of this opportunity, highlighting the potential for these educators to bring innovative learning experiences back to their students. The selection underscores Colorado SKIES Academy's commitment to advancing STEM education through immersive, real-world learning opportunities.

By participating in this program, Gispan and Kemper will join a select group of educators working to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers, potentially transforming how students understand and engage with space exploration and technological innovation.