As NASA’s Curiosity rover gets closer to its August 5/6 landing on Mars, it’s the perfect time to begin planning school activities focused on the beginning of this latest mission to the red planet.  The “Start School with Curiosity” workshop will include formal and informal STEM curriculum and resources created to enhance students’ understanding of Curiosity’s exploration of Mars at Gale Crater.   In addition, participants will be able to view a live press conference broadcast from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory with updates on the status of the mission.  After the press conference everyone will join in live Q&A session with Mars team members via NASA’s Digital Learning Network.

Workshop is presented by Laura Venner, NASA/JPL Educator, NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassadors Program, Project Astro visiting astronomer, Adjunct Professor of Astronomy at Bergen Community College, and Buehler Challenger Mission Commander.

Teacher workshop details:

Date: August 4, 2012

Participants:  All teachers are invited.  This information is adaptable to all grade levels.

Credit:  Each participant will receive 5 hours of professional credit.

Cost: If you currently have missions scheduled for 2012-2013, you can use your teacher workshop credits and come for free!  For example, two missions scheduled equals two teachers from your school can come for free, provided the credits are not needed for scenario training. If you do not have missions scheduled for 2012-2013, please join us for the nominal cost of $100 per teacher.

Lunch:  We provide beverages.  Bring your own lunch or we can order a deli sandwich for you at $6.50.

Reservations:  Make your reservation today by emailing     missionservices@bcsc.org  or  calling  Monday through Friday 9 am – 4:00 pm 201-251-8589.  The Center accepts purchase orders, personal checks, and Visa/MasterCard.  Limited space available.