In 1957 our nation suffered a blow to it’s self esteem as the Russians launched the first artificial satellite. Not only did they beat us in getting a satellite into orbit around the our planet, but they showed that since they could launch rockets into space they could use their rockets to launch a nuclear attack against our country. America had to respond but failed to launch it’s own satellite into space. While we were failing to get our rockets off the ground Russia put a dog into orbit! America was losing status around the world. So what was the plan, the plan that eventually led to us winning the space race by landing on the moon? Education. Not just education but a strong focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). We’re feeling the push again towards stressing the importance of STEM education in our country.