Cobb Reporter

Sprayberry High School is advancing its STEM education initiatives with a significant achievement. Todd Hefflinger, a veteran science teacher at the school, has been selected for the Space for Teachers Embedded Teacher Program. This program allows educators to conduct research in microgravity aboard a Zero-G parabolic aircraft. Mr. Hefflinger will take flight this May to perform experiments developed with his students.

The Embedded Teacher Program, run by Space for Teachers, Inc., aims to introduce middle and high school students to aerospace careers. Sprayberry High School's participation highlights its growing reputation in STEM innovation. The school's collaboration with NASA has already led to awards such as "Most Innovative Design" and "Best Experimental Design" in global competitions like Plant Mars and Plant the Moon.

"Our STEM students have gained rare and invaluable opportunities working directly with some of the top aerospace engineers and scientists in the country," said Mr. Hefflinger. "From engaging with Martian and lunar regolith simulants to designing hardware for microgravity, our students are truly pushing the boundaries of what high school students can achieve."

Mr. Hefflinger's upcoming flight will involve testing a 3D-printed nutrient matrix designed by Sprayberry students during their successful participation in the Plant Mars challenge. The experiment will study nutrient migration across a gel matrix under zero gravity conditions.

Principal Sara Fetterman praised Mr. Hefflinger's impact on student success: "Mr. Hefflinger is an exceptional teacher whose genuine nature and deep passion for science make a lasting impact on his students."

Mr. Hefflinger's leadership extends beyond teaching; he also serves as an educational facilitator at the Center for Space Research in Austin, Texas, each summer and participates in FastLab programs where students design experiments for the International Space Station.

Sprayberry's ongoing collaboration with NASA continues to provide transformative experiences for both students and staff, reinforcing its status as a leader in STEM education.

Fellow educator Dr. Hannah Oldham was recently recognized as STEM Teacher of the Year by both the East Georgia Air & Space Forces Association Chapter and the State of Georgia.