Challenger Learning Center of Northeast Alabama Announces Naming Partnerships
in Support of STEM Education in 12-County Region
Rainbow City, AL – Challenger Learning Center of Northeast Alabama announces two new partners who have committed support to the STEM missions/programs designed to engage middle-school students across the 12-county region of northeast Alabama.
Dr. Farrah Hayes, Executive Director of the Challenger Learning Center, described a typical day for students at the facility. “Challenger Learning Center is a one of a kind regional STEM center that will offer space-themed missions that require application of science, technology, engineering, and mathematical skills to successfully run experiments and solve problems in a simulated space environment. And, the excitement doesn’t end in space. The students will then be immersed in hands-on STEM programming customized to the classroom objectives being taught in their schools. All programming is aligned with state learning objectives and student grade-level.”
Upon arrival at the Center in the lobby where their journey into space will begin. An overhead display of the solar system will greet the students and set the stage for an interactive and dynamic, visual introduction to the world of space science and exploration.
The facility entrance shall be named the “Bettye Ann Smith Boyd Lobby” in honor of a remarkable teacher who dedicated 34 years to teaching 5th and 6th grade students science, energy, physics, light travel, and more. “I developed my own science curriculum because there was no approved curriculum for elementary students. Huntsville heard about what I was teaching and invited me to teach other elementary teachers during the summer. Then, I was invited to teach in Kentucky,” says Bettye Boyd. “I was so excited about space travel that I applied for the ‘Teacher in Space’ program. While I wasn’t selected, I was an Alabama finalist.” Jeff and Pamela Boyd chose to honor Ms. Boyd’s commitment to teaching students by ensuring her legacy continues. Students fondly remember her science lessons and her dedication to teaching.
Once in the Challenger Simulator, students will move to the Challenger Launchpad – an entry portal to the transport that launches students into space and the adventure begins! Mark and Barbara Condra chose to name this space for their parents, who were inspired educators and role models for family and students alike. “This gift is a tribute to our parents, all who were devoted educators,” said the Condras.” They instilled in us a deep respect for the transformative power of learning. They believed that education could change lives, strengthen communities, and shape a better future. We believe the Challenger Learning Center of Northeast Alabama will create opportunities not only for today’s learners, but for our grandchildren’s grandchildren and generations beyond.”
“We are so grateful for the generosity of both of these donor gifts, who have supported the work of the Board of Directors in the development and construction of the facility. They are advocates of the Challenger Learning Center’s mission, and they realize the true value of providing students with opportunities to explore the STEM fields and workforce opportunities. These students are our next generation of thinkers and innovators – they are the future of our region and state” says Dr. Hayes. For more information on the Challenger Learning Center, contact Dr. Hayes at fhayes@challengeral.org.
About the Challenger Learning Center of Northeast Alabama
The Challenger Learning Center of Northeast Alabama is part of the global network of Challenger Centers, which use space-themed missions and hands-on STEM programs to engage students in real-world problem-solving, teamwork, and critical thinking. The Center serves middle school students across a 12-county region, helping to inspire the next generation of innovators, explorers, and leaders in science and technology.
