OCTOBER 2020
This is the first issue of the JSS e-newsletter, The Mile Marker, for the 2020-2021 school year. We are excited to bring you news and information on Junior Solar Sprint—a science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) competition administered by the Technology Student Association (TSA) with a grant awarded by the Army Outreach Educational Program. JSS empowers teachers, mentors, and other community members to engage 5th through 8th grade students in the designing, building, and racing of model solar cars.
Check out the latest JSS headlines:
Free Kits
This school year we have a special offer for TSA middle school advisors. If you are interested in implementing the JSS program, TSA will provide you with five free Pitsco Ray Catcher Kits — a value of $206.75. If you are an affiliated TSA Title 1 school, please contact me to discuss how many additional kits you might need. Each kit contains a solar panel, an electric motor, a pair of small alligator clips for easy hookup, and meets the minimum specifications required by the Junior Solar Sprint competition.

Additionally, you will receive access to online resources that include weekly lesson plans and new resources to help you implement the program virtually.
Getting started is easy to receive your free kits.

  1. Affiliate your TSA chapter.
  2. Register at https://cvent.me/vvbQee. Once student members are ready to participate, please have them register also. This data is very important for the JSS program and allows for the distribution of free kits to TSA chapters.
  3. Once steps 1 and 2 are completed, send an email to [email protected] with the following information:
  • School name
  • Shipping address (kits can be mailed to home addresses but not PO boxes)
  • How many potential participants

* Please remember to send [email protected] an email after you have registered.
Cvent Registration
Don’t forget to register yourself and your JSS team members on the Cvent registration link. This is required and must be done prior to requesting kits. (Students will be able to fill out the registration on their own—but they will need a parent/legal guardian’s digital signature on the “Additional Information” page of the registration.)
JSS Resources
Be on the lookout for new and updated resources to accommodate both traditional and virtual JSS. Remember, JSS guidelines can be accessed through Total TSA once you have affiliated.
JSS Jumpstart
This onsite, elementary school-based event provides 5th and 6th grade students who are housed in elementary schools with a fun, hands-on opportunity to learn more about solar and renewable energy by building solar-powered cars. There is no fee to participate in JSS Jumpstart; however, participants need to purchase their own supplies.
Looking for ways to give your entry a boost?
Here are some tips and techniques suggested by JSS Event Coordinator Bob Walters:
Use lightweight yet strong materials for a smooth ride:
Balsa Wood Truss
Corrugated Cardboard
Foamcore Board
Take a creative spin when it comes to wheels:
Purchased
Mini CDs
Laser Cut Thin Plywood
Each month, learn more about AEOP and its STEM connections.
What is AEOP?
For more than 50 years, AEOP has supported a wide range of educational opportunities in STEM for youth, college, and graduate students, as well as valued teachers. From elementary school through graduate school, students of all proficiency levels, interests, and social and economic backgrounds are encouraged to participate in real-world STEM experiences while also engaging with Army-sponsored mentors.
Do you have a story and/or photos featuring your JSS team?
They could be highlighted in this section.