Sixth grade students from Timberline PK-8 once again had the opportunity to explore the wonders of space through the Ad Astra Academy, an outreach program hosted by the University of Colorado Boulder. This school year’s theme centered on the moon, offering students a hands-on, immersive look at lunar exploration.
The 2024-25 edition of the academy marked a shift in focus from previous years. In 2022, students investigated Mars, even directing a rover to photograph specific coordinates on the planet’s surface. This school year, the moon took the spotlight. Throughout the fall, CU Boulder scientists visited Timberline PK-8 weekly, guiding students through a series of thoughtfully planned, hands-on activities led by different experts each session. From building food models of the moon’s layers to analyzing crater simulations, students explored a wide range of space science topics, culminating in a December field trip to CU Boulder where they continued their research and met real NASA scientists.
“The impact of Ad Astra on my students has been profound, helping them to see themselves as both learners and budding scientists,” said Emily Sanger, a sixth grade science teacher at Timberline PK-8. “This collaborative effort between Timberline PK-8, Skyline schools, and scientists from CU Boulder, not only inspires the next generation of scientists, but also strengthens community ties and enriches the learning experience for all involved.”
The Ad Astra Academy is part of CU Boulder’s broader effort to engage young learners in STEM fields through hands-on, inquiry-based education. By connecting students with university researchers and NASA personnel, the program aims to inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong interest in science.
For siblings Nicholas and Teresa Merrell, this program has been a particularly meaningful experience. Teresa, now a student at Skyline High School, began her involvement with the program in 2021 while attending Timberline. Following in her footsteps, Nicholas, currently a student at Timberline, joined the program for the first time this year. “My favorite part of the Ad Astra Academy was getting to learn new things from real scientists. It was exciting to hear from people who actually work in the field,” said Nicholas. Their story highlights not only the power of family connection, but also the strength of collaboration between feeder schools and across the broader St. Vrain Valley Schools community. It’s a testament to the district’s unified approach to education, one that bridges campuses and fosters partnerships across the state.
As Ad Astra continues to evolve, it offers students not only a glimpse into space, but a chance to see themselves as future scientists, engineers, and explorers. Looking ahead, current students are eager to continue their journey of curiosity and discovery, with many excited about exploring new space-related topics in the upcoming session.