James Cole Jr., U.S. Education Department general counsel, delegated the duties of deputy secretary, will highlight the importance of summer learning opportunities by visiting students participating in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's AstroCamp program at the Boys & Girls Club Monday in Cocoa, Florida. As part of AstroCamp, students are inspired to learn about Science, Technology, Engineering and Math [STEM] through rich, hands-on activities developed by NASA scientists.
The U.S. Department of Education and NASA collaborate to create summer and after school learning opportunities for underserved students through the 21st Century Community Learning Center program. As partners, NASA and ED advance mutual STEM education goals by providing 21st CCLC program participants with access to dynamic academic enrichment experiences that use NASA's unique mission of engaging U.S. citizens in NASA's vision.
Through the 21st Century Community Learning Centers program, the Education Department supports afterschool enrichment and summer learning opportunities for students. Nationwide, there are more than 9,560 21st CCLC program sites, including several that are a part of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida.