Past CBTN Events

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Spring 2008-2009

Lunar Science and Exploration
3/18/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th-12th
This NASA scientist’s current research is in astrobiology, lunar science and exploration. He specifically is interested in how life sciences are affected in extraterrestrial environments and how biology, in turn, affects the environment in which its found. His research is focused on life in submarine volcanoes and using these environments as analogs to subsurface Mars and Europa biospheres. He also applies these ideas to lunar science as NASA gears up for the next generation of Moon and other planetary research.

A Career as Child Life Specialist
3/25/2009 1:00:00 PM to 1:45:00 PM 5th - 8th
Join Cook Children’s Medical Center Child Life Specialists and learn about their important jobs in taking care of children. As individuals who have specialized training in child development and health care, they use that information to help children and families cope with the stress of illness and hospitalization

Animals in Space and Other Cool NASA Stuff!
3/26/2009 9:00:00 AM to 9:45:00 AM 3rd - 6th
Do you think NASA wanted to send a pig into space? What did the original space suits look like? What did all of the Mercury 7 astronauts have in common? Find the answers to these questions and more by exploring historical NASA documents held at the National Archives-Southwest Region. Learn about the development of the space program through records that were created for the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo missions.

The Great Oxidation and Biogeochemical Modeling of Life and the Environment
4/1/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th - 12th
This NASA scientist is interested in coupled biogeochemical modeling of life and the environment. His research focuses on the Great Oxidation: the rise of oxygen from a trace to major atmospheric constituent 2.4 billion years ago. He has proposed that this can be understood as a bi-stability in oxygen levels. He is also doing some simple climate modeling work to look at the link between this and the Palaeoproterozoic snowball Earth glaciations.

Owls...While You Were Asleep!
4/3/2009 9:00:00 AM to 9:30:00 AM k-8th
Join us as we discuss the natural history of Owls, discuss their adaptations for evening hunting, common owls in our area, and a special visit from one of our education birds. Presented by Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge.

Children's Book Festival Author Event
4/17/2009 1:30:00 PM to 1:55:00 PM PK - 2nd
Come join us for this very interactive session (1) with Authors Jan Peck and David Davis. They will be joining us from Oak Park Elementary. They will present several of their books and talk with children about reading, writing and everything in between! Sponsored by Corpus Christi ISD in collaboration with the Education Service Center, Region 2.

Children's Book Festival Author Event
4/17/2009 2:00:00 PM to 2:25:00 PM PK - 2nd
Come join us for this very interactive session (2) with Authors Jan Peck and David Davis. They will be joining us from Oak Park Elementary. They will present several of their books and talk with children about reading, writing and everything in between! Sponsored by Corpus Christi ISD in collaboration with the Education Service Center, Region 2.

2009 Barbara Bush Story Time videoconference (Event Link)
4/22/2009 9:40:00 AM to 11:15:00 AM K - 5th
Mrs. Bush will read from “Wackiest White House Pets” and then answer questions from pre-selected schools from around the state. Next, the author of the book, Gibbs Davis, will talk about reading buddies and then demonstrate it with students on the stage. Finally, Bobbie Pennington will sing a song about Millie, a former beloved pet of Mrs. Bush. 9:40 - George Bush Library Orientation Film 10:00 - Mrs. Barbara Bush reads excerpts from "Wackiest White House Pets" and answers selected questions from children around the state 11:00 - Author Gibbs Davis visits with reading buddies on stage. Reading buddies will take turns reading from "Millie’s Book" 11:10 - Bobbie Pennington sings "Millie’s Song" To be considered for the Q&A portion, please submit up to 5 questions from your students on the registration form located on the event link. All questions should be submitted by April 8. **Hint-please have questions ready before completing the registration form!!! All schools selected for questions will be notified by April 20th.

"Astrobiology and Hypersaline Ecosystems" - with NASA
4/22/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th - 12th
This NASA scientist research concerns the mineralogy and organic chemistry of hypersaline ecosystems. As part of a group, she looks at how consortia of bacteria can influence mineral types, crystal forms and macroscopic deposits of salts in which the bacteria live. She also studies he organic chemistry of bacterial communities. Together the minerals and organic molecules can be preserved over geologic time or persist in conditions on other planets, such as Mars. Certain organic molecules and minerals are biosignatures that can help assess the possibility of life on other planets.

Titanic: From the Crow's Nest "Iceberg, right ahead!"
4/24/2009 9:00:00 AM to 10:00:00 AM 4th-12th
On April 14, 1912, the RMS Titanic hit an iceberg and sunk following day, becoming one of the most terrible events in world maritime history. As a part of our programming commemorating the anniversary of this historic disaster, Distance Learning’s Museum Storytelling is featuring a reenactment of the Titanic’s fateful collision. On April 17th and 24th, join our live interactive program where the events of the night of April 14th are retold from the perspective of Frederick Fleet, the lookout who spotted the iceberg just moments before the Titanic collided with the iceberg.

Talk about a Dirty Job: Be a Research Scientist!
4/24/2009 1:30:00 PM to 2:10:00 PM 3rd - 12th
Come face to face with Dr. John Janovec, botanist, teacher, and co-director of the Andes to Amazon Biodiversity Program, an in-depth research program currently being conducted in southeastern Peru. Dr. Janovec will share his mission and the purpose of this program along with anecdotes from the field that share the “dirt” from this dirty job. From hunting and collecting elegant and beautiful orchids to dissecting tapir poop, Dr. Janovec’s team contributes invaluable support to the efforts of conserving one of our planet’s most pristine and diverse ecosystems, the Amazon rainforest. Questions will be taken ahead of time via email. If you send student questions at least one week ahead of time, Dr. Janovec can address as many questions as time allows. Email your students questions to Pam Chamberlain (pchamberlain@brit.org ) .

"NASA Aerospace Engineering and Ultraviolet Spectroscopy" - with NASA
4/29/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th-12th
Ultraviolet spectroscopy is an important probe into the chemical and structural characteristics of planetary surfaces. This is an opportunity to work with ultraviolet data of the icy moons of Jupiter and Saturn, from the Galileo and/or Cassini missions. We are working on projects to interpret the wealth of data from these two missions. The research program focuses on understanding surface composition, by analyzing the UV reflectance spectra of the moons, and probing surface structure, by investigating solar phase curve variations.

"Passage to Possibilities: 19th Century St. Louis Immigration" (Session #1)
4/30/2009 10:00:00 AM to 11:00:00 AM 4th-10th
The story of America is a story of immigration. From our first colonial settlers through the wave of 19th century immigrants to the 20th century refugees from war and famine to those still coming today, the desire to build a better life has motivated millions to our shores. What does it mean to be an immigrant? What forces compel you to embark on an uncertain journey? What is life like in a new and strange country? To complement your students’ study of historic periods of immigration, we invite you to hear the stories of 19th century immigrants to St. Louis.

"Passage to Possibilities: 19th Century St. Louis Immigration" (Session #2)
4/30/2009 1:00:00 PM to 2:00:00 PM 4th-10th
The story of America is a story of immigration. From our first colonial settlers through the wave of 19th century immigrants to the 20th century refugees from war and famine to those still coming today, the desire to build a better life has motivated millions to our shores. What does it mean to be an immigrant? What forces compel you to embark on an uncertain journey? What is life like in a new and strange country? To complement your students’ study of historic periods of immigration, we invite you to hear the stories of 19th century immigrants to St. Louis.

A Fairy Tale Rewrite Project (Event Link)
5/1/2009 8:00:00 AM to 9:00:00 AM 3rd-7th
REGISTER ON EVENT LINK NEXT TO TITLE: An Online and Videoconferencing Project by and for Texas 3rd-7th Grade Students How would a classic fairy tale read if it was rewritten for modern times? Let’s find out! Students can turn on their creative skills, thinks about our life and times today, and put their twist on a favorite fairy tale or fable. How would it change? Would a GPS device be a part of the story? Would an iPod® be used? Projec t Guidel ines , Sugges t ions , and Timel ines · Students can work individually, in groups, or a class story can be submitted. · Students should pick a fairy tale or fable that they want to rewrite. · As soon as possible, but no later than May 1, 2009, teachers will register on the project web page at http://www.tetnplus.net/fairytale.aspx the stories their students have chosen to rewrite, ex: “A Rewrite of Little Red Riding Hood” · Students are encouraged to create pictures and artwork that compliments their story. Ideally, each rewrite should be submitted as one document including the text (either handwritten and scanned, or typed) and pictures. · Registered teachers will be given directions on how to submit their students’ stories. All stories should be submitted by May 8, 2009 and will be posted on our web site for public viewing and commenting. · Students will discuss their rewrites with other students via videoconferencing during the rest of the month of May. Videoconferences between partner schools will be scheduled at times convenient to teachers. Information will be shared with registered teachers on how to find and work with a partner school. Questions? Contact Gerri Maglia, gerri.maglia@esc13.txed.net or (512) 919-5171 Schools should contact their Education Service Center to determine participation ability for the videoconferencing portion. Deadline for submitting story titles: May 1, 2009 Deadline for submitting stories: May 8, 2009 For more information and to register: http://www.tetnplus.net/FairyTale.aspx

"In the News" McDonald Observatory turns 70! International Year of Astronomy
5/1/2009 9:00:00 AM to 9:50:00 AM k-12
In the News! Participate in McDonald Observatory’s 70th birthday and the International Year of Astronomy during this science packed videoconference! We’ll discuss Galileo’s historic first telescopic exploration of the universe, current astronomical research, history, and family summer activities at McDonald Observatory! Please join us!

Blood Typing Lab (Session #1)
5/6/2009 10:15:00 AM to 11:00:00 AM 5th - 12th
What is your blood type? Join us we learn more about how blood typing is done and why it matters. Comanche County Medical Center will help to perform the blood testing, will explain the process including Punnett Squares and the possible Allele combinations that can result. Blood borne diseases will be addressed by using slides shown on a digital overhead.

Blood Typing Lab (Session #2)
5/6/2009 11:10:00 AM to 11:55:00 AM 5th - 12th
What is your blood type? Join us we learn more about how blood typing is done and why it matters. Comanche County Medical Center will help to perform the blood testing, will explain the process including Punnett Squares and the possible Allele combinations that can result. Blood borne diseases will be addressed by using slides shown on a digital overhead.

Blood Typing Lab (Session #3)
5/6/2009 1:15:00 PM to 2:00:00 PM 5th - 12th
What is your blood type? Join us we learn more about how blood typing is done and why it matters. Comanche County Medical Center will help to perform the blood testing, will explain the process including Punnett Squares and the possible Allele combinations that can result. Blood borne diseases will be addressed by using slides shown on a digital overhead.

Student Voices - Stimulus Funds (Event Link)
5/7/2009 9:00:00 AM to 11:00:00 AM 3rd - 5th
To REGISTER, please click on EVENT LINK next to title. President Obama and the United States Congress have authorized the spending of billions of dollars to stimulate the economy. A substantial portion of those funds are directed toward schools across the United States and people in state government, school board members, school administrators and other adults are all making plans for the best possible use of the money. Who’s missing? Our students! We need the ideas of the people who will be most directly affected by the billions of dollars available to the education communities across the land. Plan to add your student voices! ALL sites will be INTERACTIVE.

Texas Connects: Save the Mansion (Event Link)
5/8/2009 9:00:00 AM to 11:00:00 AM K-6th
TO PRESENT, REGISTER ON THE EVENT LINK NEXT TO TITLE. Join us for an educational event as we learn more about the Texas Governor’s Mansion, the efforts to rebuild it after arson ravaged it in June 2008, and to learn more about other Texas historical buildings. How Can You Participate? Present: Texas students in K – 6th grade are invited to give a 5–10 minute presentation on any topic that relates to the Governor’s Mansion or any other Texas historical building. Presentations can focus on • a particular time period at the mansion • famous visitors • a particular governor • interesting facts about the contents of the mansion • what the process is for restoring historic buildings • or any other Texas historical building Presentations can be an oral presentation with an electronic slide show, a “skit” or re-enactment, a “quiz show” of “did you know” questions and answers, create a video clip to be posted on our web site, or put on your creative hats and surprise us with your presentation!

The Kepler Mission
5/8/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th - 12th
This NASA scientist will be talking about her previous work on the Mars Reconnaince Orbiter and her current work with the Kepler Mission which just launched in March to search for exo-planets similar to Earth.

Identity Theft for Students (Event Link)
5/11/2009 10:00:00 AM to 11:00:00 AM 7th - 12th
Please REGISTER on the EVENT LINK next to title. Fifty Seven students of a Wichita Falls high school were victim to identity theft in an elaborate, well organized identity theft scheme in mid April. Apparently the trouble started in January when a Co-Op teacher was contacted by a woman claiming to be a representative for the National Association of the Deaf. The woman told the teacher a convention would be held in Wichita Falls April 4-6 and students would be hired to help. Before the event they were asked for their social security numbers and other information so they could be paid. When they showed up they didn’t find any convention. Detectives Chris Gay and Cory Whitehead will discuss why identity theft has become a problem, how to protect yourself from this threat, how most identities are stolen and what to do if you become a victim.

Nanotechnology…what is it and what does it mean for us?
5/13/2009 11:30:00 AM to 12:00:00 PM 9th - 12th
We invite you to join Dr. Aaron Pan, the Museum’s Science Curator and other classrooms across the state to learn more about this growing field in science. A nanometer is one billionth of a meter-almost too small to fully comprehend-and objects on this scale are being considered in the medical, technology and consumer markets. You’ll learn more about these amazing advances.

NASA's Search For Planets
5/13/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th - 12th
Did you know that there are over 300 known exoplanets? Exoplanets are planets that have been discovered orbiting stars outside of our Solar System. And that number grows larger every day. Most of these discovered exoplanets have been detected by looking very carefully at the behavior of their parent star, since you can tell whether or not a star has a big planet, like Jupiter, around it by the way it behaves. But just within this past year, researchers used high-performance telescopes to block the parent star’s light and take pictures of some of the exoplanets themselves! Learn about this scientists work to help design a new spacecraft with a powerful telescope and coronagraph that can block starlight well enough to take pictures of even small Earth-sized planets, if they exist around nearby stars.

The Civil War (Event Link)
5/15/2009 9:00:00 AM to 2:45:00 PM 5th-8th
Join the Education Service Centers in a day long videoconference event live from Fort Richardson. The virtual field trip will catch a glimpse of life in the 1860’s. Click on event link to access flyer with details on each session. 9:00 - 9:45 am Life of a Soldier 10:00 - 10:45 am Johnny Reb and Billy Yank 11:00 - 11:45 am Gettysburg: The Townspeople 1:00 - 1:45 pm Around the Campfire with the Experts 2:00 - 2:45 pm The Battle, Cannons and Soldiers

Texas State Aquarium : All about Reptiles
5/20/2009 10:00:00 AM to 10:45:00 AM 1st-5th
Join Adriana as we talk about reptiles! We will look at snakes, alligators and turtles and discuss the similarities and differences of each. A visitor will join us to engage students in the discussion. Also, when you sign up, learn how your students can help out with the design of Bo, our American alligator’s new exhibit at the Texas State Aquarium. 3.8A; 4.8B; 5.9B;

Snake Rattle and Stand Still
5/21/2009 10:00:00 AM to 11:00:00 AM 2nd-5th
To help educate Texas students, Mr. David Sager, Mr. Dennis Cumbie, and Mr. Jody Gray from the Sweetwater Jaycees, will visit with Texas students concerning the rattlesnake’s habitat, characteristics, life cycle, different species, research, safety, and emergency medical treatment if bitten. During the program live rattlesnakes will be used to demonstrate striking distance and venom milking. Selected sites across the state will have the opportunity to participate in live Q & A with the rattlesnake handlers.

Fall 2009-2010

In the News: Art Comes Alive at the Carter
9/4/2009 9:00:00 AM to 9:30:00 AM PK - 6
If you and your students enjoyed the movie Night at the Museum 2 this summer, experience a virtual field trip to the Amon Carter Museum where our own collection of American art comes alive! Through interaction with artists or characters who “step out of” nineteenth- and early twentieth-century paintings and sculpture, students will learn about the American history and culture surrounding each art work, while getting a feel for what it’s like to take a tour in an art museum! Interactive sites will be pre-selected. Other sites will be view only.

"Astronomy - Kepler Mission"
9/9/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th - 12th
Join NASA for the first of their 2009 - 2010 DLiNFocus series of videoconferences. The "Kepler Mission" will be the focus of their discussion on September 9th from 12:00 - 12:45 pm.

The NASA Historian and Writer
9/16/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th - 12th
Join NASA in an interactive videoconference to learn about being a science writer and recording history.

We the People: A Constitution Day Program
9/17/2009 9:00:00 AM to 9:30:00 AM 1st-5th
On September 17, 1787, the delegates to the Constitutional Convention met for the last time to sign the document they had created. The National Archives at Fort Worth celebrates this important day in our nation’s history by presenting a program for students of all levels to learn more about our Constitution and government. Limited space is available. Please register quickly.

Aeronautics
9/23/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th - 12th
Join NASA in an interactive videoconference to learn more about how we test and design airplanes. NASA Ames Research Center started as an aeronautics research center and is still home to the largest wind tunnel in the world. Research varies from studying aerodynamics of aircraft, rockets, space shuttle, training pilots on a variety of aircraft, and studying how to increase the efficiency of aircraft and reduce noise pollution.

The NASA TV Producer
9/30/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th-12th
What does a TV Producer do at NASA? Learn more during this 45 minute session.

The Heart of the West
10/2/2009 9:00:00 AM to 9:30:00 AM K-12
You have a rare opportunity to experience Western-influenced artworks from some of today’s most talented female artists. Be among the first to get a glimpse of the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame’s 2009 Heart of the West exhibit on Opening Day. The beauty and majesty of the West has inspired artists for generations. Explore timeless Western themes captured in oil, bronze, watercolor, pencil and other mediums as we open this show for the first time to our videoconference viewers.

Robotics
10/7/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th - 12th
Join NASA in an interactive videoconference about current and future robotic missions. More information will be posted soon.

The Aerospace Engineer
10/14/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th - 12th
Christopher Randall is an Aerospace Engineer in the Valves, Actuators & Ducts Design & Development Branch at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). He is responsible for the design and development of various Main Propulsion System (MPS) components for the Ares I Crew Launch Vehicle (primarily the liquid oxygen system) as well as the propulsion system for the Altair Lunar Lander Ascent Stage. Join us to learn more about this exciting career.

Texas State Aquarium: Sharks
10/15/2009 10:00:00 AM to 11:00:00 AM 1st-5th
How many teeth does a shark really have? Join Adriana to answer this and other questions about sharks. Students will learn why we are so scared of this misunderstood predator. We will play a guessing game as we take a look at many different species of sharks and examine their habitat called the ocean. Science TEKS: 1.9, 2.9, 3.9, 4.8, 5.9

Astrobiology and Polar Research at NASA
10/21/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th - 12th
Dr. Bramall worked on a variety of science and engineering projects supporting Polar research including: a series of Dust Loggers, Biospectral Loggers and scanners (fluorimeters targeting organics using DUV excitation), the analysis of the data they produced, the IceCube Standard Candle, and a variety of biological problems revolving around the in situ metabolism of microorganisms within a matrix of ice.

"A Career as a Firefighter"
10/27/2009 9:00:00 AM to 9:45:00 AM 4th-6th
What is it like to be a firefighter? What type of education and training must you receive? What is life like in the firehouse? Join the City of Keller firefighters to learn more about this important career!

"Fire Safety with the Keller Clowns" (Event Link)
10/29/2009 9:00:00 AM to 9:45:00 AM k-1st
October is Fire Awareness Month. Do you know what to do in case of a fire? Who do you call? How do you get out of your home? Join the Keller Firefighter Clowns as they have a little fun in helping get these important messages to our young students.

Lunar Exploration
11/4/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th - 12th
Join NASA for an interactive videoconference about the LCROSS mission. It will have just impacted the moon - get the most recent results! More information coming soon.

LCROSS's Impact on the Moon!
11/4/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th - 12th
The LCROSS mission is a search for water on the moon. The LCROSS mission is going to do this by sending a rocket crashing into the moon causing a big impact and creating a crater, throwing tons of debris and potentially water ice and vapor above the lunar surface. This impact will release materials from the lunar surface that will be analyzed for the presence of hydrated minerals which would tell researchers if water is there or not. The two main components of the LCROSS mission are the Shepherding Spacecraft (S-S/C) and the Centaur upper stage rocket. The Shepherding Spacecraft guides the rocket to a site selected on the moon that has a high probability of containing water. Because they have only one chance with this mission in finding water, the researchers have to be very precise where they program the Shepherding Spacecraft to guide the rocket.

In the News: Turkey Talk
11/6/2009 9:00:00 AM to 9:30:00 AM PK - 6th
Turkeys have become an indispensable part of Thanksgiving tradition. Join Texas Wildlife Association as we discuss the history, anatomy, habitat and various "calls" or vocalizations that turkeys make to communicate. TEKS: Science TEKS: 3rd grade: 3.8, 3.9, 3.10 4th grade: 4.3, 4.5, 4.8, 4.9 5th grade: 5.3, 5.9, 5.10 6th grade: 6.3, 6.10, 6.11

The Fall of the Berlin Wall: 20 Years Ago
11/11/2009 2:00:00 PM to 2:45:00 PM 6th
November 9th marks the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. Join Dr. John Ishiyama, professor at Unitversity of North Texas, and the Editor-In-Chief of Journal of Political Science Education, as he covers the changes under Gorbachev and how those changes led to end of the Berlin Wall and the collapse of Communism in Eastern Europe. Interactive slots are limited and will be awarded on first come, first served basis. So register quickly.

Texas State Aquarium: Invasive Species
11/12/2009 10:00:00 AM to 11:00:00 AM 1st-5th
Do you know what is really in your backyard? You could be harboring an invasive species! Join Auburn at the Texas State Aquarium to learn about the invasive plant species of the Coastal Bend area. How did these invaders get here? What can they do the natural habitat? How can you help prevent the spread of these harmful plants? You might be surprised to find that they could be lurking in your own backyard! Ages: 5th-9th

The NASA Rocket Engineer
11/18/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th - 12th
Stephan "Steve" Davis was named Deputy Manager of the Ares I-X Mission Management Office in 2006. In this role, Mr. Davis supports the Mission Manager, Bob Ess, in every aspect of managing the mission. In addition, Mr. Davis has special oversight responsibilities for the design, development and integration of the test flight vehicle?s first stage, avionics, and roll control systems at the Marshall Space Flight Center. Before his current assignment supporting Ares I-X, Mr. Davis was deeply involved in the 2005 Exploration Systems Architecture Study (ESAS) at NASA Headquarters, which established the basic configurations for the Ares launch vehicles being built today. That work led directly to developing a flight test program, which eventually included the Ares I-X flight.

Astrobiology and Life on Other Worlds
12/2/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th-12th
The work this scientist does mostly focuses on microbiology, because there is a thought that if we are able to find life on other worlds, it is most likely to be something like the bacteria we have here on Earth. He tries to figure out how the microbes that live here on Earth change their environment in ways that might be detected from far away in space. That kind of information will eventually help us to collect data from other worlds and use it to say whether or not there is life on those worlds. Join him to learn more about his work.

2009 Operation Santa (Event Link)
12/8/2009 8:00:00 AM to 3:00:00 PM PK - 2nd
It’s that time of year again! On December 8th & 9th, Santa will connect with you live, from the North Pole, to visit with your students. For this event, your students will write letters to Santa at the North Pole. He will then connect with your students via videoconference and respond to the letters. He will interact, sing and answer questions that your students might have. To register for this event, please use the "event link" provided above. You will need to fill in important information. The fee for members is $65 per session. For non-members, $85 per session. Important Dates: Registration Deadline: November 20th Student Letters, Permission Slips and PO must be received at the ESC by November 30th.

NASA Systems Engineer
12/9/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th - 12th
Joel Richter is a systems engineer at Marshall Space Flight Center where he leads development of the interface between the Ares I Crew Launch Vehicle and Ground Systems such as the launch pad and Vehicle Assembly Building.

In the News: Behind the Scenes at the Nutcracker with the Texas Ballet Theater
12/11/2009 9:00:00 AM to 9:30:00 AM PK - 6th
This is a behind the scenes look at the Texas Ballet Theater’s holiday production of the Nutcracker. Included will be an introduction to ballet and technical terms, rehearsal footage of the Act II dances, a look at a "live" ballet class, and a sneak peak at sets and costumes.

Our Solar Neighborhood
12/15/2009 8:45:00 AM to 9:30:00 AM K-2nd
Join NASA as they take your students on a tour of our solar system.

Mars Geology
12/15/2009 1:00:00 PM to 1:45:00 PM 6th-8th
Learn more about the geology of one our most talked about planets, Mars.

Space is Really Big
12/16/2009 9:00:00 AM to 9:45:00 AM 6th-8th
Just how big IS space? Come learn more from Linda Krauss with the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.

Saturn and its Moons
12/16/2009 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 3rd-5th
So how many moons does Saturn have? Let’s learn more from Dr. James Sowell with Georgia Tech.

Spring 2009-2010

In the News: Stock Show Style
1/8/2010 9:00:00 AM to 9:30:00 AM 3rd - 7th
January 15, 2010, marks the start of the 114th Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. The next day, nearly 100,000 eager spectators will line the streets of downtown Fort Worth to enjoy the Stock Show Parade. Get in the spirit of this Fort Worth tradition by joining us in the heart of downtown at the Sid Richardson Museum the week before the Stock Show’s opening day! View the parade saddle, vest and chaps that Texan Sid Richardson received prior to the 1947 Fort Worth Stock Show. The parade outfit was the work of Edward H. Bohlin, saddle maker and silversmith of Hollywood, California. Some called Bohlin the “saddle maker to the stars.” Hear the story of who gave Mr. Richardson this elaborate parade outfit, and be introduced to the artistry and heritage of saddle making.

Texas State Aquarium: Taxonomy
1/21/2010 10:00:00 AM to 11:00:00 AM 3rd-7th
Join Adriana as we discover how and why scientist group plants and animals. In this program we will look at physical characteristics of animals, learn who the father of taxonomy is and learn the history of taxonomy. Science TEKS 6.12 C,D 7.11 B

Stories of Immigration
1/21/2010 10:00:00 AM to 11:00:00 AM 6th-12th
What does it mean to be an immigrant? What forces compel you to embark on an uncertain journey? What is life like in a new and strange country? Hear directly from recent immigrants to St. Louis. Explore their impact on American culture. Learn about services designed to help their transition.

Freedom Suits, Slavery, and American Justice
2/2/2010 10:00:00 AM to 11:00:00 AM 6th-12th
What were freedom suits and how did they influence the lives of slaves and their owners? Go back in time to early 19th century St. Louis. Explore primary source court records. Hear the stories of slaves seeking freedom, their lawyers, and their owners. Open a window on history and explore.

Barbara Bush Story Time
2/3/2010 9:40:00 AM to 11:15:00 AM 4th - 8th
The Education Department of the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum is proud to present Story Time featuring Mrs. Barbara Bush reading Mr. President, A Book of U.S. Presidents, and answering students’ questions. Sharing reading insights and enjoyable ways to read will be: Lisa Miller, a Bush Library Outstanding Educator and Art Teacher at Bremond ISD; Texas Fifth Graders as Reading Buddies; and, musical storyteller Bobbee Pennington. This is a rare opportunity to create excitement for reading! This free event is a state-wide videoconference for schools able to connect with a Texas Regional Education Service Center’s distance learning service. If you would like to ask Mrs. Bush a question, please submit up to 5 questions on the registration form prior to Jan. 19th. All schools chosen to ask a question will be notified by January 27th. Hint the more unusual/unique the question, the more likelyhood of getting picked!! Participating school districts will receive a copy of the book.

Lunar Exploration - The Rocket Propulsion Scientist (Event Link)
2/3/2010 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th-12th
Join mechanical engineer Karma Snyder as she tells you about her career working in rocket propulsion. Her experience as a senior design engineer for the RL10 Program led her to employment with NASA at Stennis Space Center. The RL10 liquid rocket engine carried LCROSS to its final destination, the moon.

Cowboy Close-Up (Event Link)
2/8/2010 10:00:00 AM to 11:00:00 AM 1st-3rd
This event is now unavailable. Registration deadline has passed for the Cowboy Close-up event. The photographs of Erwin E. Smith (1886–1947) along with the paintings and sculpture of Frederic Remington (1861–1909) and Charles M. Russell (1864–1926), are viewed as primary resources that tell the story of the American cowboy during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Students experience the history and lifestyle of a cowboy through the eyes and words of an historical reenactor as they watch video clips filmed with an authentic chuck wagon. After the videoconference, continue exploring the theme by using supporting lesson plans from the Carter’s online teaching guide Erwin E. Smith: The Cowboy Photographer.

Lying: Non Verbal Communications Lab
2/16/2010 8:00:00 AM to 9:30:00 AM 6th-12th
On Feb. 16, 2010 we are conducting a virtual non verbal communications lab video conference. We will have up to the first dozen high schools or middle schools connected to test a theory: Can you actually judge if a person is lying by their non verbals as well as how much non verbal communication changes between cultures. Each school will teach a pre-lesson on non verbal communication. This information will be provided by us. Then on Feb.16 we will have a quick review of the previous lesson plus a great practical lab experience. Come join an academic lab experience that will be exciting as well fun for your students.

The Life of the Buffalo Soldiers (Event Link)
2/17/2010 10:30:00 AM to 11:30:00 AM K-12th
This event features the legacy and history of the contributions by the African American Cavalry and Infantry Regiments. The "Texas Story" of the 9th Calvary and 24th and 25th Infantry is an important part of this historical event. This event is presented by the George Bush Library Education Department. This event is recommended for Texas History and American History Classes. Helpful sites: http://www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com/ http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/learning/community_outreach_programs/buffalo_soldiers/

Astrobiology, Bacteria, Minerals, and Life on Other Worlds (Event Link)
2/17/2010 12:00:00 PM to 12:45:00 PM 6th-12th
Join astrobiologist Marilyn Vogel as she discusses her research concerning the mineralogy and organic chemistry of hypersaline ecosystems. As part of a group, she looks at how consortia of bacteria can influence mineral types, crystal forms and macroscopic deposits of salts in which the bacteria live. She also studies the organic chemistry of bacterial communities. Together the minerals and organic molecules can be preserved over geologic time or persist in conditions on other planets, such as Mars. Certain organic molecules and minerals are biosignatures that can help assess the possibility of life on other planets.

Come Explore the JOIDES Resolution...a research vessel on its way to Antarctica! (Event Link)
2/24/2010 1:00:00 PM to 1:50:00 PM 3rd-5th
Join us for a chance to talk to scientists and other crew members via interactive videoconferencing on the amazing 470 foot long ocean drilling research vessel JOIDES Resolution (JR). You will be able to see and talk to an international group of marine geologists and technicians LIVE while they are out at sea, learn what they are researching, and get a peek at the research vessel that has been so important to increasing our understanding of the seafloor, plate tectonics, and past climate change. If you don’t know the JR, you should! This is a great way to meet the ship, her scientists and crew - many of whom are from Texas. To learn more about the JR and to prepare for our live event, see http://joidesresolution.org

In the News: Presidential Powers (Event Link)
2/26/2010 10:00:00 AM to 10:45:00 AM 8th - 12th
Article II, Section 2 of the Constitution defines the executive branch and specifically states the powers of the president. EXPLORE and EXAMINE documents from the National Archives at Fort Worth that illustrate these powers. EXTRAPOLATE information from primary sources including presidential appointments, pardons, and treaties. Documents from the administrations of Jefferson, Monroe, Polk, Grant, and Cleveland will be highlighted. Please visit the following site to download the documents that will be used in this program. TEKS: 8.5 G, 8.16 D, 8.30, 8 Government, 9 Government, 11 Government

Internet Safety for Kids! 10am
2/26/2010 10:00:00 AM to 10:50:00 AM 6th - 8th
Join Kim Benefield from the Alliance for Children and Alex Lewis, Assistant U.S. Attorney of the Northern District of Texas, as they discuss NetSmartz and answer students questionss. NetSmartz is an interactive, educational safety resource that teaches children and teens how to stay safe on the Internet. NetSmartz combines the newest technologies available and the most current information to create high-impact educational activities that are well received by even the most tech-savvy kids. Two of the pieces, "Amy’s Choice" and "Julie’s Journey," are actual recordings of victims recounting the consequences of their online choices. The NetSmartz program includes group discussions to reinforce the concepts.

Deeper Dive with Philippe Cousteau
3/1/2010 9:00:00 AM to 10:00:00 AM K - 5th
Open up the world of learning with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transport students under the sea with Philippe Cousteau, world-renowned environmentalist, Discovery Channel host and grandson of the renowned explorer Jacques Cousteau! Presented live from the Seattle Aquarium, students in Grades K-2 will explore the coral reef animals and their adaptations, while 3rd-5th grade students will examine the interdependency of organisms in the ocean. Pre- and post- field trip curriculum, aligned to elementary science TEKS, will deepen and extend the students’ understanding of the coral reef. All registered teachers will be entered for a chance to win an all-school "Discovery Day" assembly featuring Philippe Cousteau! Sponsored by Discovery Education

2010 Read Across America
3/2/2010 9:30:00 AM to 11:30:00 AM PK - 3rd
Join us for the thirteenth annual observance of NEA’s Read Across America. The NEA is calling all of America’s children, both young and old, to reward their learning by celebrating the joys of reading with Dr. Seuss on his 106th birthday. Readers of all ages are encouraged to celebrate on March 2. 9:30-10:00 Danny Valdez (CCFD) reading No Dragons for Tea 10:00-10:30 Matt Terhune – KRIS TV Meteorologist: Magic School Bus: Inside a Hurricane 10:30-11:00 Patricia Moore - NASA Johnson Space Center: Reading Is There Life in Outer Space? & There is No Place Like Space 11:00 - 11:30 Corpus Christi Rays Hockey Player – The Magic Hockey Stick

Texas State Aquarium Statewide: Frogs in Crisis
3/4/2010 10:00:00 AM to 11:00:00 AM 3rd - 12th
Globally, there are more than 4200 species of frogs, with new species being discovered every year. The rapid decline or disappearance of numerous species of frogs has become a global crisis. Frogs, toads, salamanders, newts, and caecilians are going extinct. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) estimates that at least one-third of known amphibian species are threatened with extinction, a rate higher than that for any birds or mammals. Major threats to amphibians include habitat loss or degradation and the rapidly dispersing infectious disease chytridiomycosis. Managed populations of amphibians may become the only conservation hope for many species faced with extinction. Join Adriana as we discuss the actions taken by scientists and conservation groups globally. Find out how your local Zoo or Aquarium is taking charge to help these endangered species.

In the News: Olympic and Arena Athletes
3/5/2010 9:00:00 AM to 9:30:00 AM PK - 6th
Like the athletes of the Olympics, the women of the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame fill people with excitement of the games. Discover the graceful athleticism of champion cowgirls as we compare the events of the arena to those of the Olympic Games. Join us as we discover just a few of these stalwart heroines as competitors, pioneers and winners in their events and the thrill of the game.

The Battle of the Alamo (Event Link)
3/5/2010 10:00:00 AM to 10:50:00 AM 4th
Fourth grade classrooms throughout Texas are invited to participate in a special program marking the 174th anniversary of the Battle of The Alamo. This program is presented by Dr. Richard Bruce Winders, Historian and Curator of the Alamo; Museum Educator, Sherri Driscoll and Assistant Curator, Ernesto Rodriguez. This 50 minute presentation will bring the participants of this famous battle to life in your classroom! Students will better understand the roles that they played and the effects of this terrible defeat. The content aligns with the 4th grade Social Studies TEKS as outlined below. Social Studies 4.3A & 4.3E The student understands the causes and effects of the Texas Revolution, the Republic of Texas, and the annexation of Texas to the United States. The student is expected to: (A) analyze the causes, major events, and effects of the Texas Revolution, including the battles of the Alamo and San Jacinto; (E) identify leaders important to the founding of Texas as a republic and state, including Sam Houston, Mirabeau Lamar, and Anson Jones.

Rainforest Connection Series: Tropical Rainforest Introduction (Event Link)
3/8/2010 10:00:00 AM to 10:40:00 AM 4th - Biology
Join us as we connect with researchers from Montclair State University connecting LIVE from the Rainforest in Belize! This is session one in a series of five videoconferences this week. What is a rainforest? Is there only one kind? Where are they? What lives there? How do we study them? What’s so special about them? Check out Jackie’s Journal from this quest by following the event link provided above. (Right below title)

Rainforest Connection Series: Predators Stalk within a Food Web (Event Link)
3/9/2010 9:00:00 AM to 9:40:00 AM 4th - Biology
Join us for the second videoconference session in Rainforest Connection. We will connect with researchers from Montclair State University connecting LIVE from the Rainforest in Belize! Predators get such a bad reputation for eating others. Yet, when we study them, we learn so much about ecosystems. Adaptations, anatomy and function, social organization, food webs, senses, and intelligence can all be studied through the intriguing lives of predators. Go to the event link provided above to see pictures from our research!(right below title)

Rainforest Connection Series: Symbiosis (Event Link)
3/10/2010 9:00:00 AM to 9:40:00 AM 4th - Biology
Join us for the third videoconference session in Rainforest Connection. We will connect with researchers from Montclair State University connecting LIVE from the Rainforest in Belize! Relationships between species within a tropical forest are very complex and interconnected. Organisms as different as ants and fungi or sloths and algae have special relationships. How do species live together? What special adaptations make their lives together successful? What kinds of symbiosis do we find in a forest? Read more about Sloths in the event link provided above.

Rainforest Connection Series: Decomposition (Event Link)
3/11/2010 9:00:00 AM to 9:40:00 AM 4th - Biology
Join us for the fourth videoconference session in Rainforest Connection. We will connect with researchers from Montclair State University connecting LIVE from the Rainforest in Belize! The "Brown Food Web" is a way to view the multitude of decomposers and the processes that break down living organisms and return their nutrients to green plants. The diversity of decomposers rivals that of the Green Food Web in the leafy canopy of a rainforest community. How are nutrients recycled in a forest? What are the roles of various species in the process of returning nutrients to trees? Why is decomposition just as important as photosynthesis? For more information about decomposition, go the event link provided above.

Rainforest Connection Series: Poop Cam
3/12/2010 9:00:00 AM to 9:40:00 AM 4th - Biology
Join us for the fifth and final videoconference session in Rainforest Connection. We will connect with researchers from Montclair State University connecting LIVE from the Rainforest in Belize! The cycles of energy and nutrients in an ecosystem form the foundation of life on Earth. Poop plays an important role in returning minerals to an ecosystem. How do dung beetles and other poop scavengers utilize this end-product of digestion? Mammals use scats and urine to leave messages for others of their species. Biologists study elusive species through their scats and with video cameras. What is there to learn from poop?

Distance Learning Dept.
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