In June, 2006, The Middle School at Parkside became a NASA Explorer School. The NASA Explorer Schools Program is a unique three-year relationship with the opportunity for educators and students to become involved in the excitement of NASA research, discoveries, and missions.  

The program works on three levels, involving students, teachers and parents in an effort to incorporate science, mathematics and technology into education. Throughout the three year commitment, schools will refine an action plan, continue professional development and incorporate students and parents into the learning process. NASA will work with schools in engaging scientific challenges, solving design problems, and collaborating on scientific discussions and data collection. Throughout this relationship, participating schools will have the opportunity to increase student interest, ability, and knowledge in science, mathematics and technology concepts and careers.