Astronauts Connect With Shaker Students — While In Space

SHAKER HEIGHTS, OH — Last week, on Nov. 1, the Shaker Heights Schools connected with astronauts aboard the International Space Station for an in-flight educational session, called a downlink. Shaker was the only district in Ohio to get such a rare and awesome opportunity.

The 20-minute session gave students of all ages gathered at the Shaker Heights High School auditorium the chance to ask astronauts questions and learn about life in space.

NASA astronauts Joe Acaba and Mark Vande Hei took part in the session. Both men are former teachers.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our young people and an incredible honor for the District,” says Superintendent of Schools Gregory C. Hutchings, Jr in a statement. “These 20 minutes could inspire the next generation of astronauts, scientists or mathematicians just as much as it could spark creativity in arts and music. We are so grateful that NASA has given our District this special opportunity.”

Indeed, there's something electric about hearing a broadcasted voice say, "Shaker Heights Schools this is Mission Control Houston, please call station for a voice check." It seems like something straight out of a film. When the connection between the auditorium and the space station is made, applause breaks out at Shaker Heights High.

“For years, the High School planetarium has been a valuable learning resource for our students’ knowledge and understanding of outer space,” says Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum Terri Breeden. “This downlink enables students to see the real-world applications of what they’ve studied.”

Video of the entire question-and-answer session is available below.

Photo from YouTube Screenshot