River View fifth graders show right stuff on Mars mission

Accompanied by teachers Cathleen Kimble and Jane Matlock, a select group of fifth graders from River View Elementary School explored the final frontier on March 18 on the campus of Purdue University-Calumet. The group visited the Challenger Learning Center, which features Challenger and Columbia shuttle simulators that explore space through innovative programs and foster a long-term interest in science, math and technology for students.

Participants were trained to become 'mission specialists' conducting NASA experiments, and were part of a team of students and teachers from across Will County. Their mission was to land successfully and live on Mars for a period of two years. Kimble and Matlock served as 'commanders' for the event, and stressed the importance of teamwork during 12 morning meetings with their mission specialists-in-training.

Forty River View students applied to be a part of the program, but only 14 were selected to participate. They comprised the Data Team, the Remote Team, the Isolation Team and the Life Support Team.

River View, one of 14 elementary schools in Plainfield Community Consolidated School District 202, is located at 2097 Bronk Road in Plainfield.

For more information, contact Kimble or Matlock at (815) 439-4840.