Jack Swigert Aerospace Academy

The Jack Swigert Aerospace Academy, an aerospace-themed middle school created through a partnership between the Space Foundation and Colorado Springs (Colo.) School District 11 (D-11), uses aerospace themes and principles to build student proficiency in science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics (STEAM).

The Space Foundation and D-11 jointly develop the Academy's national standards-based curriculum and provide teachers with the training and support they need to bring the curriculum to life in the classroom. The inquiry-based, hands-on, minds-on teaching approach encourages and inspires students to study technology-based subjects, as well as helping them develop study skills that can be applied across all disciplines. Formal mentoring programs that connect students with aerospace professionals and involvement in Space Foundation programs, such as the National Space Symposium, further strengthen the educational program at the Academy.
 
Named in honor of Colorado native and Apollo astronaut John L. "Jack" Swigert, Jr., and located in Colorado Springs, the school opened in August 2009 with more than 500 students.

The Space Foundation Discovery Institute - our international professional development center, education destination for students and home base for our education team - is located on the campus of Jack Swigert Aerospace Academy campus, making it convenient to provide services to both teachers and students.