The Challenger Space Center in Peoria, an affiliate of the Smithsonian, has been selected by the Smithsonian Institution as one of just three locations nationwide to host the 11th annual Smithsonian Teachers’ Night. All Arizona educators are invited to attend this free event on Friday, September 19th, from 4:00-6:30 pm at the Challenger Center. On the same day, simultaneous celebrations will take place at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. and the Cosmosphere in Hutchison, Kansas.
        
The Smithsonian Teachers’ Night at the Challenger Center, which this year celebrates the centennial of flight, will feature speakers, demonstrations, and giveaways for teachers, including a complimentary tote bag filled with free Smithsonian educational resources for the classroom. The Smithsonian Institution’s Dr. Herma Hightower, Director of National Programs, will join other Arizona dignitaries for this special education event.
     
Registration is required, and can be completed by contacting Gloria Warnick at
623-322-2044 or email [email protected] ; or online at www.teachersnight.org .
     
SPECIAL ACTIVITIES FOR TEACHERS:
On Smithsonian Teachers’ Night at the Challenger Center, educators will be invited to:

* Take a behind-the-scenes tour of Challenger’s Mission Control, Space Craft and
Shuttle Launch Simulator

* Preview the Kalusa Miniature Aircraft Exhibit, on loan from Embry Riddle
Aeronautical University
      
* Discover Near Earth Objects

* Meet Astronauts, Aviators, and Artist Bob McCall

* Meet Lt. Colonel Rich Scobee, son of Lt. Colonel Dick Scobee, the Commander of the
Challenger Space Shuttle

* Enter drawings to win free prizes

* Enjoy cocktails, light refreshments and entertainment
    
Smithsonian Teachers’ Night is an annual event for classroom teachers, principals, superintendents, curriculum specialists, community leaders, and home-schoolers. At the event, participants meet with museum and science center representatives and receive information about the Smithsonian’s educational resources and how to use them to enhance their students’ education.