Dark Skies, Bright Kids program improves the scientific education and literacy of elementary school children in Virginia. By providing fun and engaging astronomy-themed activities during after-school clubs at different schools each semester, during summer camps and at annual “star parties,” the program provides a gateway to the sciences for young learners.
Johnson and a team of graduate volunteers have extended their outreach to school systems as far away as Wise County, as well as going to Charlottesville and Albemarle schools. Dark Skies, Bright Kids tries to target rural and lower socio-economic areas where after-school programs and facilities are often lacking, but where the nighttime skies are the darkest – which makes for the best astronomical observation.
• Vickie Southall, assistant professor of Department of Family, Community & Mental Health Systems, School of Nursing
