Two students from Alabama House District 18 – which includes Franklin County – will receive a full scholarship to Space Academy at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center.

Students ages 12-14 may apply for Space Academy for Leading Students in Alabama, a Space Camp program funded by the Alabama legislature. This program promotes science, technology, engineering and mathematics education, along with leadership skills.

“I am excited to announce that two middle-school students who live in my House district will receive scholarships to attend a special Space Camp free of charge,” said Rep. Jamie Kiel. “I had the opportunity to attend Space Camp when I was in middle school, and it was a great experience for me. I would like to encourage all students to apply for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Students may apply for the SALSA scholarship through their school counselor. Kiel said he has notified all school systems in House District 18, and they have the information needed to apply.

Deadline to apply is Jan. 31, 2020, and the two students chosen by the selection committee will be notified in March 2020.

The dates of the camp are May 24-29, 2020. Each scholarship includes tuition, room and board for the Space Academy program. Travel to and from the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville is not included.

According to the program brochure, students selected for the week-long camp will “work together as a team to solve complex problems using STEM concepts and 21st century learning skills, learn to train like an astronaut using authentic simulators and embark on their own simulated space missions to the International Space Station, the moon and Mars.”

Students will also learn about the subjects and careers associated with science and space exploration.

“The job market is changing,” Kiel said. “Our students must be prepared to compete in the STEM areas. This is one way that we can help our students compete for high-paying tech jobs in the future.”

To learn more, visit www.spacecamp.com/salsa.