The trip, sponsored by the It Gets Better Project and JPL's LGBTQ Committee, provided an enriching experience for 23 students to visit the NASA campus. Students in the school’s Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) Club were invited, as well as any interested students outside the club.
During the field trip, students were immersed in a day filled with exploration and education as they toured the renowned JPL facilities. A highlight of the trip was the exclusive access granted to the Mission Control floor, a privilege rarely offered to the public. Students witnessed firsthand the assembly of the latest probe destined for Europa, scheduled for launch in October.
Following the tour, the students had the opportunity to engage in a learning lunch with diverse JPL employees representing various fields, including engineering, drone project management, contracts, and administration. This interaction provided valuable insights into the diverse career opportunities within the realm of space exploration.
"Trips like these are important because they inspire students to see that they have options to pursue careers in math and science, especially as one of our students is planning to major in astrophysics," said BPHS English teacher and GSA Club advisor Michelle L. Humason.
The trip also held significance for the LGBTQ students in attendance. "It was also a positive experience for our queer students as this was a chance for them to see real-life representation of a healthy, positive, accepting workplace," Humason continued. "Truly, it echoed the message of the 'It Gets Better' organization. The students met folks like themselves who are working in a field they love and are comfortably able to be who they truly are at work."
PHOTOS
BPHS_JPL1: Baldwin Park High students pose for a photo while visiting NASA’s JPL for an educational field trip.
BPHS_JPL2: Baldwin Park High students pose for a photo while visiting JPL Mission Control floor with exclusive access.
BPHS_JPL3: Baldwin Park High students pose for a photo outdoors while visiting NASA’s JPL for an educational field trip.
BPHS_JPL4: Baldwin Park High students pose for a photo while visiting NASA’s JPL for an educational field trip.
BPHS_JPL5: Baldwin Park High students take a tour of NASA’s JPL building.