#USA #Brownsville #CMB #Space Prize Foundation

Space Prize Foundation Unveils New Educational Equity Program

On February 20, 2026, the Space Prize Foundation proudly announced the launch of a groundbreaking educational initiative aimed at enhancing opportunities for underserved students and families in Brownsville, Texas. This program seeks to provide enriching experiences in space science and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) activities for local schools that typically lack such resources.

In collaboration with the Brownsville Independent School District (BISD) and the Children's Museum of Brownsville (CMB), the initiative targets over 500 second-grade students and 42 families from the economically disadvantaged schools within BISD. Students will have the unique opportunity to participate in immersive learning experiences at the museum, exploring key exhibitions such as SpaceX Boca Chica to Mars. This initiative is designed specifically for those students who may have limited access to extracurricular learning experiences, guaranteeing that they can witness the wonders of space innovation firsthand.

The experiences provided by this program not only aim to engage students but also promote family involvement in education. By drawing parents and guardians into the learning process through interactive activities and games, the initiative ensures that families can collectively deepen their understanding of essential STEM concepts. Roman Chiporukha, founder of the Space Prize Foundation, emphasizes the core purpose of this collaboration: “Creating opportunities that allow students and their families to experience the inspiration of science will fundamentally change their perspectives on the future.”

Along with visiting the museum, participating teachers will receive specially designed curricular materials from the Space Prize Foundation that will be used for extended learning activities before and after the visit. This ensures that knowledge gained during the museum experience is reinforced through classroom theory and real-world exploration.

Felipe Pena III, Executive Director of the Children's Museum of Brownsville, noted that the museum is committed to ensuring that the doors to learning are open to every child. “This collaboration allows us to reach hundreds of students and families who otherwise might not have the opportunity to engage in informal STEM education,” Pena said. This sentiment resonated strongly with BISD leadership, who underscored the importance of encouraging family participation in education, especially during the early formative years of elementary education.

BISD Superintendent Dr. Jesus H. Chavez indicated that meaningful experiences outside the classroom play a crucial role in helping students build confidence and imaginations. “Through creating these meaningful extracurricular experiences, we help students develop their confidence and inspire their imaginations, fostering a sense of belonging in the world of science and technology.”

This initiative highlights the mission of the Space Prize Foundation to promote equal opportunities in space and STEM education and demonstrates how community-focused projects can impart positive and far-reaching impacts on students, families, and future generations.

About the Space Prize Foundation

The Space Prize Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to enhancing public awareness of space literacy and advocating gender equality in STEAM fields. Since its inception, it has focused on creating opportunities that inspire future generations of innovators. Following the successful extension of its outreach to Paris and Portugal, the organization plans to welcome both male and female students in the 2026 Space Prize Challenges, fostering an environment of collaboration and ensuring all young innovators can realize their potential. The Foundation has also developed the Space Education Curriculum, the first open-source space education program aimed at equipping students for the rapidly expanding space economy and the future of humanity’s multi-planetary endeavors.

About the Children's Museum of Brownsville

Each year, the Children's Museum of Brownsville welcomes over 75,000 visitors through engaging learning activities that spark curiosity and creativity in children. The museum is dedicated to providing exhibitions, programs, and outreach initiatives that empower all children and families to learn actively and thrive.

About Brownsville Independent School District

The Brownsville Independent School District (BISD) is the largest employer in the Rio Grande Valley, covering an area of 95 square miles. With approximately 6,000 employees, the district is responsible for the education of over 36,140 students. BISD is deeply aware of the unique cultural landscape of South Texas and offers diverse academic activities and programs to all students.