Jessica Schilder, the dedicated Astronomy and Earth Science teacher at Tomball High School, has been selected for the Space for Teachers Embedded Teacher Program. The prestigious program will take her from Tomball to Bordeaux, France, where she will take part in a zero‑gravity research flight aboard a specially equipped Airbus A310.
From the Navy to the classroom and now to microgravity
Schilder’s fascination with space began at age ten, when she dreamed of becoming an astronaut. After a decade of service in the United States Navy, she settled in Tomball, raised three children, and began a ten‑year career shaping young minds in science. Her passion for exploration now extends beyond the classroom walls.
Zero‑gravity experiment details
From November 17 to November 20, Schilder and a cohort of twelve teachers will conduct a series of parabolic flights that simulate six minutes of weightlessness. The experiment will investigate how zero gravity affects thermal conduction and the natural rise of heat. “When you ask students why hot things rise and then remove gravity, you see the wheels turning,” Schilder explained. “That curiosity is what drives this project.”
Preparation and community support
Before departure, the teachers gathered at the Center for Space Research in Austin to lay the groundwork for their projects alongside industry experts. Schilder also leads several local science initiatives, including Project Lead The Way and the Astro Engineering club, which competes in space‑focused mini‑competitions. Her students have been vocal supporters, eager to see their teacher apply real‑world science to the classroom.
“I hope to bring back a tangible connection for my students,” Schilder said. “Seeing a real experiment in microgravity shows them that science isn’t just theory—it’s something they can experience and be part of.”
Impact on Tomball education
The experience promises to enrich Tomball ISD’s STEM offerings. Schilder plans to share data, video, and lesson plans with fellow educators, giving more students access to cutting‑edge research. By linking local classrooms to an international scientific community, the program underscores the district’s commitment to preparing students for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Community members and parents have praised the opportunity, noting that such initiatives reinforce the importance of strong family support and faith‑based encouragement in academic pursuits. As the program unfolds, Tomball residents can look forward to updates that highlight the achievements of a local teacher representing Texas on a global stage.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Houston — read the source article.
