Boeing to Donate $1 Million to Science Education Center
WASHINGTON
The Challenger Center for Space Science Education announced earlier this month that the Boeing Company will contribute $1 million to support professional development programs for the nation's math and science teachers.
"The entire network of current and future Challenger Learning Centers will be the grateful beneficiaries of Boeing's generosity," says Dr. June Scobee Rodgers, founding chairman of the Challenger Center for Space Science Education.
The international nonprofit organization was set up as a living memorial to the STS 51-L crew that perished in January 1986.
"Our network of 52 Challenger Learning Centers will serve as a launching point for these new training materials and professional development opportunities that will enhance math and science instruction in their schools. Boeing's gift will ensure that the half a million students and teachers served each year across the country will receive the quality teaching materials they deserve," said Rodgers, who is the widow of 51-L Commander R. Francis "Dick" Scobee.
In light of the Columbia tragedy one year ago this month, Boeing's gift will coincide with strong interest in developing Challenger Learning Center communities in eastern Texas. The towns of Nacogdoches, Hemphill and Lufkin lay in the debris path of the Columbia wreckage, as well as in Amarillo, Texas, the hometown of Columbia Commander Rick Husband. Educators in these communities are expected to benefit from Boeing's gift to the Challenger Center and its worldwide network .
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