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About The Program Directors
Leadership for each week-long study is provided by Dr. Mark "Doc" Palmere, Ph.D., and Mr. Joe Wiggins. Dr. Palmere has an extensive background in inspiring, motivating and empowering high-potential students. Dr. Palmere has worked with the Space Voyage programs since 1987, immersing students in an astronaut experience and encouraging skill development in the areas of problem solving, communication, teamwork and aeronautics. Dr. Palmere holds a bachelor's degree in biological science, a master's degree in educational psychology and dual doctoral degrees in the areas of child-school psychology and school administration, curriculum and instruction. Mr. Joe Wiggins has a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, five years experience in the aerospace industry and 10 years experience with the Denver Museum of Natural History as a science educator. Mr. Wiggins brings tremendous expertise in designing high-quality interactive programs. Additional Space Voyage-certified instructors will assist as staff members.
A Day at Space Voyage Academy
The following is a sample day at Space Voyage Academy. Students arrive, review the previous day's work and plan the day's activities. The flight director conducts a short briefing including news and reviews. Mini-seminars are conducted in small groups to teach needed concepts and students work with crews to reach objectives for their level. Staff also help crews learn new concepts and strategies to be successful. Students eat lunch (sack lunch from home) while watching a movie or video. After lunch, a second briefing is given by the flight director to help with special concerns and interests. Students continue to work independently, with their crews and mini-space contests are held. Each day at 3:50 p.m. a final briefing is held to review the day and prepare for the next day. Parents are welcome to attend this final briefing beginning at 3:50 p.m.
At Space Voyage Academy, students are given the freedom to select activities in which they are interested, the power to achieve and an environment in which to have fun. Each crew develops a sense of belonging, building real friendships and peer-to-peer alliances. Many students return each year, progressing through the program and staying in touch with new friends.
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