Middle school students urged to apply for Space Camp scholarships

WINSTON COUNTY - State Representative Tracy Estes (R-Winfield) has announced middle school students in House District 17 may apply for one of two scholarships to attend space camp at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville.

Students will be selected to participate in the one-week event from either July 16-21 or July 23-28. With the exception of transportation to and from the facility, the total cost of the camp will be covered through grants provided by the Alabama Legislature. The scholarships will cover the cost of tuition and room and board.

Students ages 12-14 may apply for the scholarships known as SALSA (Space Academy for Learning Students in Alabama). The program is designed to promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics education. Leadership skills are also a focus of the program.

Interested students must apply online at spacecamp.com/SALSA. For additional information, parents may email SALSA@spacecamp.com. Information may also be obtained through local school counselors across House District 17. The deadline to apply has been set for March 31. The two students chosen will be notified in April.

Estes represents Marion and portions of Lamar and Winston counties.

“Space camp represents a unique opportunity for our students across the district,’’ Estes said. “My sole purpose in providing this information is to make this opportunity available to all who have an interest. 
“I have friends whose children have attended Space Camp and used the knowledge gained there to eventually pursue careers in aerospace and other similar sciences.

“I am friends with one particular family whose daughter attended space camp and used this experience to build a career with NASA, where she served as the lead engineer for the space shuttle engine team. I hope our students who might have similar dreams will use this opportunity to start their own careers and chase their own dreams.

“Opportunities such as these can be used as a reminder to our students that those who live in a small community, such as those I represent, can achieve great things. I hope a number of our students will apply and see where this might lead. I want our students to never be fearful to pursue the highest of goals. I have full confidence our district will provide two outstanding candidates to be chosen for this program.’’