Canfield students to talk with astronauts in space

CANFIELD Hilltop Elementary students will get to have the chance to speak with astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as a part of the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) program in 2026.

This partnership is a part of an education initiative that connects students worldwide with astronauts in space, hoping to inspire STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) learning in students' lives.

Hilltop STEM teacher Stephanie Palumbo and second-grade teacher Bethany Lopatta began the application process in March 2025, with ARISS making fewer than 100 direct contacts worldwide each year and only selecting a few United States schools. 

"This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime educational experience for our students," Palumbo said. "No one is ever going to forget this." 

The school also plans to welcome guest speakers to present lessons on radio communications, space science and astronomy. Students will visit a planetarium and both teachers will attend professional development training at the Kennedy Space Center to prepare for the experience.

On the day of the contact, the entire school will be involved, with a chance for some students to speak directly to the astronauts.
The event will be live-streamed for families and the community to enjoy.

"This is the kind of experience that can inspire a child's lifelong interest in science," said Lopatta. "Many astronauts say they were inspired to pursue their dreams between the ages of 8 and 10 — the same age as many of our students."

"This opportunity represents everything we strive for in Canfield Schools," said Joe Knoll, superintendent of Canfield Local Schools. "We are engaging students in real-world learning experiences that inspire curiosity, creativity, and discovery. Communicating with astronauts aboard the International Space Station will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I am very proud of our staff for making this happen."

The event is scheduled to take place sometime between January and May 2026, with NASA determining the exact date once the ISS's orbit and schedule align with the school's location for the live radio contact.