LOS ANGELES, June 20, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) is accepting applications from math and science teachers at accredited middle schools or college students studying to become teachers for its foundation-sponsored Weightless Flights of Discovery program through June 29. The program includes zero-gravity aircraft flights and hands-on workshops.
Math and science teachers at accredited middle schools or college students majoring in education at universities near locations where flights will take place -- Baltimore, Md.; Bethpage, N.Y.; Colorado Springs, Colo.; Dallas; Los Angeles; Newport News, Va.; New Orleans; and Washington, D.C. -- are encouraged to apply. Special consideration will be given to educators in underserved communities and at schools with underperforming math and science scores. Flights will occur between Aug. 3 and Oct. 8, 2007.
To obtain an application, please visit: http://www.northropgrumman.com/community/weightless.html
The Northrop Grumman Foundation Weightless Flights of Discovery is designed to inspire students to pursue science and technical careers by first inspiring their teachers. Since being introduced in June 2006, the program has doubled in enrollment size; it now provides professional development to 480 current and future teachers. The Weightless Flights of Discovery program was created and developed by Northrop Grumman in cooperation with Zero Gravity Corporation.
Teachers selected for the program will have the opportunity to participate in a parabolic or zero-gravity aircraft flight, which creates temporary weightlessness, similar to what humans experience during space travel to the moon or Mars. The experience simulates how astronauts train for space flight. During workshops, teachers will learn about science and engineering concepts, zero gravity environments, and science and math curriculum development.
This program is one of several initiatives that the Northrop Grumman Foundation sponsors in support of promoting education and student interest in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields.
Northrop Grumman Corporation is a $30 billion global defense and technology company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in information and services, electronics, aerospace and shipbuilding to government and commercial customers worldwide.