National Museum of Nuclear Science & History and Albuquerque Public Schools Launch Landmark "Mission Fission" Program
Groundbreaking Partnership Establishes Immersive Nuclear Science and History Experience as APS' First Middle School Signature Field Experience for Over 4,500 Eighth Graders Annually
[Albuquerque, NM] – The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History (the Museum) and Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) are thrilled to announce the launch of "Mission Fission," a dynamic and immersive educational program designed to engage over 4,500 Albuquerque eighth-grade students in the fascinating world of nuclear science and its historical significance. The pilot project is partly funded through a generous grant from the Sandia Foundation; Mission Fission is set to become APS’s first middle school signature field experience, seamlessly integrating with the existing curriculum to provide a rich and contextual learning opportunity.
Co-designed by the Museum and APS educators, Mission Fission features six distinct cross-curricular components to foster a deeper understanding of nuclear science and history while highlighting New Mexico's pivotal role in the atomic age. Students will participate in a variety of engaging activities, including "Radiation 101," exploring scientific principles; "60 Minutes to Doomsday," an interactive social studies application; mathematical explorations in Heritage Park focused on trajectory, size, and proportion; and Language Arts and social studies activities where students take on the role of reporters covering significant historical events.
The program also includes thoughtfully designed pre-field trip classroom curricula to ensure students are well-prepared for their museum experience. It also includes post-field trip exercises to allow students to reflect on their experience and extend their learning.
"Mission Fission allows students to engage and identify the unique role of New Mexico in the atomic age's past, present, and future," said Valerie Bonilla, Middle School Science and Outdoor Learning Support Specialist at APS.
Amy Chase, Elementary Science and Outdoor Learning Specialist at APS, added, "Sometimes classroom education can provide a siloed experience; field trips like Mission Fission help provide real-world context. The curriculum for Mission Fission was thoughtfully designed with an in-classroom pre- and post-field trip curriculum so that students are better prepared for the museum's content and the programs they will participate in, including programs that address the full breadth of subjects,” said Chase.
“Mission Fission represents a powerful collaboration between the Museum and APS, made possible by the generous support of the Sandia Foundation,” said Gabriel Nemiroff, Director of Education at the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. “This innovative program promises to provide Albuquerque's eighth graders with an unforgettable and enriching educational experience, fostering a stronger sense of place and understanding of the region's significant history and scientific contributions.”
Mission Fission’s inaugural pilot field trip will launch on May 5th. Two other APS middle schools are already slated to visit the Museum.
About the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History:
The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History is the only museum in the United States that tells the complete story of the Atomic Age, from early research through today’s peaceful uses of nuclear technology. Located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the Museum strives to present, interpret, and preserve the complex history and science of the atomic age in an objective and thought-provoking manner.
About Albuquerque Public Schools:
Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) is the largest school district in New Mexico. It serves a diverse student population and is committed to providing quality education and fostering student success.
About Sandia Foundation:
The Sandia Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Sandia National Laboratories, dedicated to supporting educational initiatives and community development in New Mexico.
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