Learn Math and Science and Reach for the Stars

Imagine that you are in space; a beautiful view of earth behind you.  Zero gravity makes you float weightlessly as the planets calmly orbit the sun. That was  Sally Ride's experience when she was up in space. Ride was the first female astronaut to blast off as a NASA astronaut. 

“It was very, very cool,” she said. “It was an exhilarating experience.” 

Ever since she had that experience, Ride has wanted other kids to strive for it.  She created a great program for kids titled Sally Ride Science.  Her goal is to teach kids more about science and engineering so they can have a better future.

At the panel discussing how to prepare America’s students to complete in a Global Economy, Ride spoke about her opinion on the subjects of math and science in school. The panel was part of NBC's Education Nation conference held in New York City this week.

“It’s important for kids to realize how important science and math are to their futures and careers,” said Ride.

Her program was built to help educate kids on science and help them pursue their dreams for the future. That requires a good education. 

“Our programs are all about showing kids that it (science and math) is important, and that there are a lot of students just like them who are fascinated with it (science and math) and that there are lots of scientists and engineers that have very, very cool careers, who do very interesting things that are very, very relevant to every day life,” she said.

Another great program for kids interested in science is a program called STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Studies.  STEM Studies and Sally Ride Science are both important programs that help to teach and influence kids.

                                                                                                           —Mariam El Hasan

PHOTO: Kid Reporter Mariam El Hasan interviews astronaut Sally Ride. (Photo: Amanda Hebert)