SAN MARCOS ACADEMY
San Marcos Academy 5th grade students are reaching for the stars — literally! As part of an exciting global experiment, SMA young scientists are participating in the Plant the Moon Challenge Jr., where they test their skills in growing crops using lunar and Martian regolith simulants.
Through hands-on learning, students are applying both math and science to measure plant growth and explore the possibilities of sustaining life beyond Earth. This immersive experience not only deepens their understanding of STEM concepts but also sparks their imagination about the future of space exploration and agriculture.
“These students are getting a truly unique opportunity to engage with science in a way that feels tangible and exciting,” said Jen Besch, fifth grade teacher. “They’re not just reading about space in textbooks or completing math problems — they’re using their learned skills and actively experimenting with what it might take to grow food on another planet.”
One of the most thrilling aspects of the challenge is the chance to interact with Martian soil simulant, giving students a hands-on connection to what could be the future of space farming. Who knows? The next generation of space explorers and agricultural pioneers might just be right here at SMA.
San Marcos Academy is currently accepting applications for the upcoming school year. Contact the admissions team today at 512-753-8000 or visit smabears.org/admissions to learn more.
Left, Bradi Brashears and classmates suit up to start the planting. Right, 5th Grade students enjoy feeling what the surface of Mars looks and feels like while starting the planting process. Photos courtesy of San Marcos Academy
