NASA Summer Institute Selects Two Colorado SKIES Academy Educators for Space Education Program

Two educators from Colorado SKIES Academy, Mary Gispan and Craig Kemper, have been selected for the NASA LiftOff Summer Institute 2025: Flight Path to Innovation, highlighting the school's commitment to advancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.

The week-long professional development program, hosted by NASA's Texas Space Grant Consortium and the Center for Space Research at The University of Texas at Austin, will provide an immersive experience for educators from across the United States. From June 23–27, 2025, Gispan and Kemper will engage directly with NASA scientists and engineers, tour advanced facilities, and develop innovative curriculum resources centered on aerospace exploration.

The selection represents a significant opportunity for professional growth and curriculum enhancement. Participants will gain firsthand insights into space exploration, enabling them to bring authentic, real-world scientific experiences back to their classrooms. The Colorado Space Grant Consortium is supporting the educators by covering their accommodations, meals, local transportation, and facility tours.

Campus Director Meredith Motley emphasized the importance of this opportunity, noting that the selected teachers embody the academy's commitment to fostering innovation and curiosity among students. By participating in this program, Gispan and Kemper will contribute to shaping the future of STEM education through direct connections with space exploration professionals.

The selection underscores Colorado SKIES Academy's strategic approach to educational development, particularly in preparing students for potential careers in scientific and technological fields. By sending educators to such prestigious programs, the school demonstrates its dedication to providing cutting-edge learning experiences that extend beyond traditional classroom boundaries.

This opportunity highlights the growing importance of hands-on, experiential learning in STEM education. As industries increasingly demand professionals with practical skills and innovative thinking, programs like NASA's LiftOff Summer Institute play a crucial role in preparing educators to meet these evolving educational and professional landscapes.