Congressman Joe Kennedy III Visits Astronaut Program in Sharon

Sharon's "Train Like an Astronaut" program was presented to elementary school students at the Heights Elementary School on Friday, March 22.

The program has spanned the entire school district in Sharon and all the classes congregated in the gymnasium to watch, listen and learn about NASA on Friday.

Special Guest speaker Congressman Joseph Kennedy III spoke with the students about the importance of NASA and what it does for our country, before going live with NASA.

"This program holds a special place in my heart and I am here representing my family, for it was my Great Uncle, President John F. Kennedy, Jr. who encouraged space exploration," Kennedy said.

It was May 25, 1961 when President John F. Kennedy urged the American people during a time of uncertainty to take bold new steps in the exploration of space.

Tim Vigorito, Physical Education Director at the Heights Elementary School, spent more than a week at NASA.

"My message to the kids today is to never let anyone tell you that dreams don't come true because this program today is living proof that dreams DO come true," Vigorito said. "This journey for me began way back in October of 1957 when my Mom took me outdoors to watch Sputnik orbit overhead. With the early encouragement from my Mom and Dad, who often read five to six books every week, I was always told to read, read, read all about the subjects that were of most interest to you. I still need to read every day.

"The second message I have is for the adults. NASA is involved with so much more than simply putting satellites and people into space. The NASA teams work tirelessly to teach students of all ages about the importance of learning science, technology, engineering, math, the arts, physical education and health. The astronauts themselves give so generously of their time to visit schools, conduct tours and encourage learning at all age levels. The Human Research Program Education Outreach division under the direction of Dr. Charles Lloyd designed the Mission X program with the assistance of the astronauts, educators and astronaut trainers. I am honored to be working with the finest experts in the world, and I am most humbled to call them my friends."