The U.S. Space & Rocket Center has responded to reports on social media concerning a Space Camp transgender counselor.
The reports have even included posts on X from U.S. Rep. Dale Strong and U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville.
It is imperative that Space Camp remains a safe place for children to learn and grow in STEM education to become the next generation of scientists, engineers, and astronauts.
⬇️ My full statement below: pic.twitter.com/NUsMSXOesK
— Coach Tommy Tuberville (@SenTuberville) March 11, 2024
Strong has called on Space Camp to “remove this individual and open a safety review” to investigate “potential harm and damages” the counselor may have caused to campers.
As an educational institution for our nation’s children, it is critical that the @RocketCenterUSA put their safety and wellbeing first.
My full statement below ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/IQX0d4I7bd
— Dale W. Strong (@RepDaleStrong) March 11, 2024
Some parents have gone so far as to remove their children from Space Camp.
The Space & Rocket Center responded in a statement it is aware of the rumors about the counselor and the safety of the students is a top priority.
“We would like to assure parents, teachers, and the public that the safety and security of Space Camp students is our number one priority,” the statement read. “Any allegations of misconduct are taken very seriously.
“We are working to determine the facts in this case, after which we will take appropriate action.”
The U.S. Space & Rocket Center said it adheres to all state and federal laws regulating hiring practices, including vetting candidates for employment.
“Our camp staff undergo extensive nationwide criminal background checks that include state, county, and municipal court-level information, Department of Corrections data, state sex offender registries from across the country, and multi-panel drug tests,” the statement read. “We also have rigorous standards and procedures regarding the behavior of Space Camp employees to ensure the safety of students.”
Space Camp’s employee regulations include:
- No physical contact between staff and students beyond a fist bump or high five.
- No staff is allowed to be alone with a student behind a closed door.
- No sharing of personal details including personal phone numbers, email addresses, or social media information.
- No discussion of religion, sexual topics, politics, or sharing of opinions and beliefs that may be controversial.
The counselors and campers sleep in separate rooms from students and use separate bathroom facilities.
“We also provide 24-hour onsite security including round-the-clock video surveillance, regular foot and vehicle patrols, and controlled campus and building access,” the Space Camp statement read.
“We are an apolitical organization with no social agenda. Our singular mission is to inspire and educate.”
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