Washington, DC (April 17, 2007) – Today, Congressman Rubén Hinojosa (TX-15) announced that Dr. Hesiquio Rodriguez Elementary School in Harlingen has been selected as one of 25 new NASA Explorer School Teams comprised of 29 different schools across the nation. The NES program focuses on underserved populations and involves educators, students, and families in NASA’s research, discoveries, and missions.

“I am thrilled that Dr. Hesiquio Rodriguez Elementary School has been selected to participate in this exciting program,” said Hinojosa. “This partnership will provide an extraordinary opportunity to participate in authentic NASA science and technology activities and help inspire a new generation of explorers and technically savvy leaders.”

Explorer Schools work with NASA personnel and other partners over a three-year period to implement school improvements that support the use of NASA programs and address their local needs in mathematics, science, and technology education. The program uses NASA's unique content, experts and resources to make learning science, mathematics and technology more appealing to students.

Schools in the program are eligible to receive up to $17,500 over a three-year period to support student engagement in science and mathematics.  Educators and students will join NASA’s mission of discovery through educational activities and special learning adventures tailored to promote science, mathematics and technology applications and career explorations.  During its first four years the NES Program has reached over 175 schools in 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.