March 6, 2003

Science teachers across the Nation overwhelmingly believe educators belong on future NASA Space Shuttle missions, according to an email-based survey conducted by the world's largest science teacher's organization following the Columbia tragedy.

The survey, conducted by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) February 10-14, indicates more than 91 percent believe teachers should have a place aboard future Space Shuttle missions, and the endeavor has great educational value. Science teachers also believe Educator Astronauts could spark student interest in science and mathematics careers. Science teachers also strongly believe Educator Astronauts can serve as role models to instill in students an understanding of how science and mathematics are applicable in the real world.

Educator Astronaut Barbara Morgan, Educator Astronaut Program Co-Managers, Leland Melvin and Debbie Brown, will be attending the NSTA Convention in Philadelphia March 27-30, 2003 to encourage teachers to apply to become permanent members of the Astronaut Corps.

Morgan and Brown will speak at a Special Feature Presentation March 29 at 8 a.m. in the Pennsylvania Convention Center, and Morgan will be the guest lecturer at the Aerospace Educators Luncheon from noon to 2 p.m. EST, also in the convention center. Media desiring to attend the luncheon should call 703/312-9371 for press credentials.

The Educator Astronaut Program has received more than 5,300 nominations since the program debuted on January 21. Texas leads with 831, followed by Florida with 482, and California with 416.

The application deadline is quickly approaching. Nominations and applications for NASA's Educator Astronaut Program are due by April 30.

Information about the National Science Teachers Association survey is available at:
http://www.nsta.org/pressroom&news_story_ID=47920

Information about the National Science Teachers Association National Convention is available at:
http://www.nsta.org/main/pressreg/pressrelease.asp

To learn more about the Educator Astronaut Program and other NASA education activities on the Internet, visit:
http://edspace.nasa.gov

For more information about NASA on the Internet, visit: http://www.nasa.gov.

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