From the Programs Committee Chair...

Why we do school star parties...

TimBurns

• Details
• Category: Programs Committee
• Created on Friday, 07 May 2010 09:36

Those of us that do school star parties know that they can be quite rewarding.  I believe the recent letter we received from a school teacher summarizes things quite eloquently:

"I wanted to thank you so much for your wonderful star gazing presentation at our school this past April.  It was enjoyed immensely by Fernley Elementary school students and parents alike.  I had many parents come and thank us for providing this opportunity.  At FES we strive to provide opportunities for parental involvement.  This created a great opportunity that everyone could enjoy.

At times it is a challenge to get the involvement we are seeking due to the fact that not all people have pleasant school experiences, thus the school is not a comfortable place.  The star party brought parents in, and it was amazing to hear them share their childhood memories of star gazing with their children.  A common ground that we so often overlook.

Your presentation is universal and can be enjoyed by all whether or not they speak the same language.  We had some non English speakers attend and they enjoyed themselves fully.  What a wonderful experience to be a part of.

Altogether we had 46 parents and students attend.  I sure hope we can do this again next year.  I am looking forward to that and so are the families that came.   Hopefully next year, I will have my telescope and can help out.

Again, thank you for your time, and patience.

Sincerely, 

Robin K. Avalos

Fernley Elementary School

First grade

P.S.  Is there an address where students can send their thank you’s?"

I would like to thank all of the members who help us with the various school star parties.  One of the ASN's primary goals is to provide public outreach in order to promote astronomy and we couldn't do it without you.