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Nov. 29, 2023, 2:58 p.m.

The cutting-edge work of Native American aerospace engineer Mary Golda Ross

SUMMARY

As Native American Heritage Month comes to a close, for our “Hidden Histories” series, we look at the life and legacy of Mary Golda Ross, the first Native American woman to become an engineer and a pioneering figure of the space age.

For a transcript of this story, click here.

News wrap alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.

WARM UP QUESTIONS:

  1. Who was Mary Golda Ross, and what is her background?
  2. Where did Mary Golda Ross grow up?
  3. What influenced Golda Ross's passion for education and engineering?
  4. When did Mary Golda Ross become the first Native American woman to earn a professional certification in engineering?
  5. Why was Mary Golda Ross considered a pioneering figure?

FOCUS QUESTIONS

What do you think were the most inspiring achievements and innovations in Mary Golda Ross's engineering career?

Media literacy: How can you find out more about Native American Heritage Month?

Alternative: See, Think, Wonder: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What story would you want to find out more about? Where would you go to learn more?

FOR MORE

What students can do: Discuss with a friend, neighbor or classmate — Did you know November is Native American Heritage Month? See the following video on what justice means for one Native American family. You can find a lesson on the story here.

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Illustrations by Annamaria Ward