LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. -- The Department of Defense’s STARBASE at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas celebrated its 100th class, May 10, 2024.
After officially opening its doors at Little Rock AFB in Aug. 2022, STARBASE AR has now completed 102 classes, delivering a STEM-based curriculum to primarily fifth grade students.
STARBASE is designed to enhance the local education system with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) experiences. The goal is to create scholar interest to guide their selection of a STEM career when entering higher levels of education.
“Our students here in central Arkansas have benefited greatly from having STARBASE at Little Rock AFB,” said Mrs. Terri Williams, 19th Mission Support Group school liaison program manager. “Each class receives extraordinary opportunities to learn with hands-on activities that allow for students to develop their critical thinking skills and skills that will enable the next generation of innovators in a technology-driven world.”
Throughout the week students spend at STARBASE, military volunteers provide a bridge between abstract principles and real-world applications. Through tours, lectures, and interactive experiences, students gain insights into how STEM is utilized in a variety of settings and diverse careers.
“We look forward to the upcoming years ahead in our partnership with STARBASE and celebrate each class that walks through the doors,” said Williams. “We are thankful for a strong relationship that allows us to empower scholars to solve complex problems, fostering a brighter future.”