South Carolina ETV (SCETV) is excited to announce that it will provide livestream coverage in partnership with the SC Department of Employment and Workforce (DEW) as middle school students from South Carolina schools connect with the crew aboard the International Space Station (ISS) in December.
The proposal titled “Operation Space Talk SC” was chosen to participate in the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) program. Submitted to ARISS by a coalition of Regional Workforce Advisors (RWAs), the proposal creates an exclusive and educational opportunity for students in Lower Savannah, Trident, Santee Lynches and Pee Dee schools. Middle school students get to learn about radio operations and talk with members of the ISS crew via amateur radio.
Participating schools by region include:
- Lower Savannah: Lake Marion Middle School in the Orangeburg County School District
- Trident: Woodland Middle School in Dorchester School District 4
- Pee Dee: Dr. Ronald E. McNair School of Digital Communication and Leadership in Florence School District 3
- Santee Lynches: Hillcrest Middle School in the Sumter School District
An international consortium of amateur radio organizations and space agencies, including NASA, created and organizes the ARISS program. It engages young people in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) activities, while raising their awareness of space communications, radio communications, space exploration, and related areas of study and career possibilities.
The RWAs’ proposal is one of nine selected nationwide and includes a robust education plan with related curriculum that has been implemented for students leading up to their contact with the ISS in December. The education plan includes an upcoming rover competition for eighth-grade students, professional development and training for educators and the opportunity for teachers to become certified amateur radio operators.
ISS contact is expected to take place in December. More information will be shared on SCETV’s Instagram, Facebook or X page once a date is announced.
QUOTES
"We are thrilled to provide livestream coverage of this extraordinary event. “Operation Space Talk SC” not only offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for these students to communicate directly with the ISS crew, but also inspires a deeper interest in STEAM fields. This program embodies our commitment to fostering educational excellence and innovation in South Carolina." –SCETV Chief Learning Officer Dr. Salandra Bowman
“Programs like ARISS offer hands-on career exploration for young students, which is important for the development of our future workforce. I’m incredibly impressed with the dedication of DEW’s RWAs in developing the ARISS proposal and accompanying curriculum. Thanks to their efforts, these lucky students will truly reach for the stars.” –DEW Executive Director William Floyd
FAST FACTS
- SCETV will provide live stream coverage as middle school students from South Carolina schools connect with the crew aboard the ISS.
- A proposal submitted by a coalition of RWAs to ARISS creates an exclusive and educational opportunity for students in Lower Savannah, Trident, Santee Lynches and Pee Dee schools.
- South Carolina middle school students get to learn about radio operations and talk with members of the ISS crew via amateur radio.
- The RWA’s proposal is one of nine selected nationwide and includes a robust education plan with related curriculum that has been implemented for students leading up to their contact with the ISS in December.
About South Carolina ETV and Public Radio
South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is the state's public educational broadcasting network. SCETV amplifies South Carolina voices, provides educational experiences and strengthens communities, while working toward creating a stronger, more connected and informed South Carolina. In addition to airing local programs, such as Carolina Classrooms, Making It Grow, and This Week in South Carolina, SCETV also presents multiple programs to regional and national audiences, including By The River, After Action, Reconnecting Roots, Reel South, Somewhere South, Yoga in Practice and How She Rolls. In addition, SC Public Radio produces the national radio production, Chamber Music from Spoleto Festival USA.
About the SC Department of Employment and Workforce
The SC Department of Employment and Workforce is putting South Carolinians to work. The agency has four missions: (1) workforce development; (2) free job match employment services; (3) unemployment insurance; and (4) labor market information. All four missions contribute to workforce development in South Carolina. The agency is dedicated to advancing South Carolina through services and programs that meet the needs of our businesses, jobseekers, and those looking to advance their careers.
Media Contact
Landon Masters
media@scetv.org
(803) 737-3337