Los Lunas — Meta has partnered with the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science (NMMNHS) to sponsor a five-year space science-themed field trip for fifth graders in Valencia County.
“One of the strengths of our museum is our educational programs, and we are excited that this partnership will make these programs more accessible to students and families in Valencia County,” said Anthony, Executive Director of NMMNHS. Dr. Fiorillo said in a recent press release.
The field trip, which began in early February, aims to get more students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, with a focus on space science.
David Williams, Community Development Manager for Meta Data Center, said: at Los Lunas. “So this really made sense for how we can highlight new opportunities for STEM and students.
“STEM today is so important for students considering careers and going to college. have the opportunity to do so.”
As part of its partnership with each class, the museum will provide pre- and post-visit resources to help teachers prepare students before the trip and continue research and learning afterward.
“So it’s not just a fun excursion, it’s an excursion that highlights these core competencies that students focus on in the classroom,” Williams says.
According to Williams, the emphasis is on grade 5 because grades 3 through 5 are formative grade levels that keep students interested and engaged in STEM throughout the rest of their academic career. .
“At Meta, we are focused on supporting STEM education in the data center community. It also helps develop important life skills, such as being an exuberant and creative problem solver.”
Through the partnership, an estimated total of 256 classes from across Valencia County will be able to participate in these excursions during the five-year duration of the program. Opportunities to participate are open to all her 5th grade public and private students.
Students can enjoy planetarium shows, hands-on activities in the Museum’s Space Science Gallery, and visits to the new Virtual Reality Station in the Museum’s Education Wing.
Meta’s $300,000 grant to the museum will allow all Valencia County and Isleta Pueblo residents to attend the museum and its planetarium free of charge every February for the next five years. As of late February, more than 3,840 county residents have visited the museum free of charge.
“The museum will also be working with all local libraries in Valencia County to offer expanded programming on space science,” Williams said. You can stop by your local library for the programs offered.”
To date, Meta has invested over $3 million in community support through partnerships with local schools, small business investments, and our data center annual Community Action Grant Program.
“We are thrilled to call Los Lunas home,” said Williams. “We are truly focused on the long-term success and vitality of Valencia County, and I see this as a step towards that continuation.”
Felina Martinez was born and raised in Valencia County. She graduated from the University of New Mexico in 2021. During her time at UNM, she studied interdisciplinary film, digital media and journalism. She covers the village of Los Lunas, the Los Lunas School, the School of Dreams Academy, and the town of Peralta.
