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Hansard, April 27, 2009

Video Link to International Space Station

Mr. McFarland: Mr. Speaker, on a clear night many of us have looked into the night skies and observed a satellite streaking across the heavens, wondering just how it's possible that you could travel through space. I'm thrilled today to speak to a government an and shy;nouncement just recently made that County Central high school in Vulcan, Alberta, will host a video link with the International Space Station this September. Students in the Palliser school district will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to speak live with the astro and shy;nauts aboard the space station. Astronaut Dr. Robert Thirsk, an engineer and physician, the first Canadian to spend six months in space, will answer science- and technology-related questions from participating students. This event is significant since it's Canada's first space mission this year. More importantly, it will also mark the first time a Canadian takes part in a long-duration mission. Alberta was the first jurisdiction in Canada approached by the Canadian Space Agency to participate in this historic event. The school was selected based on the capacity of the community to integrate technology both in and outside the classroom and to create learning opportunities for students. This speaks to the quality of our Alberta educational system to be forward thinking and innovative. The choice of County Central high school also shines a spotlight on the special relationship and dedication of the students, the parents, and the community in and throughout the county of Vulcan. I became aware of this special project on February 26 at Vulcan when I met Marilyn Steinberg from the Canadian Space Agency and representatives from Alberta Education Kim Budd, Angie Tarasoff, Karen Andrews, and Lynda Burgess. I want to thank them for their individual efforts in making this project a reality and also to acknowledge the efforts and vision of Kevin Gietz, superintendent of Palliser Regional Schools and the Palliser school board. Thank you, and congratulations to our communities.