Continuing the Challenger Legacy
As a leader in STEM education, Challenger Center and its network of Challenger Learning Centers use experiential STEM education programs that bring STEM subjects to life and inspire students to pursue STEM careers. Challenger Center and its global network of Challenger Learning Centers use space-themed simulated learning and role-playing strategies to help students bring their classroom studies to life and cultivate skills needed for future success, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and teamwork. In the aftermath of the Challenger STS-51L tragedy, the crew’s families came together, committed to continuing the education mission.
In 1986, the families of the Challenger STS-51L crew created Challenger Center to carry on the spirit of their loved ones and continue the education mission. Learn more at www.challenger.org.
MISSION
Engage students and teachers in dynamic, hands-on exploration and discovery opportunities that strengthen knowledge in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), inspire students to pursue careers in these fields, and provide an outlet to learn and apply important life skills.
VISION
Build a scientifically literate public and shape our future leaders to help improve quality of life across the globe – not just through pragmatic teaching, but also by the power of vision, inspiration, and innovation.
The Future Challenger Learning Center of Northeast Alabama
OUR STORY
The journey to establish a Challenger Learning Center (CLC) in Alabama began in July 2022 with a group of fifteen businessmen and women, community leaders, and educators who expressed concerns about gaps in education and the need to widen the workforce pipeline of highly skilled workers. It was readily apparent that the goals of the Challenger Center for Space Science Education and its global network of learning centers were not only closely aligned with the State’s current initiatives but also offered a hands-on learning experience in a unique space-themed environment. Read the full story here.
What We Do
The Challenger Learning Center of NE Alabama will deliver STEM experiences designed for middle school and high school students. The space-themed simulation-based experiences are led by trained Flight Directors and take place in a fully immersive Space Station and Mission Control. Read the full story here.
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