A new aviation program at Sparr Elementary School took flight on Wednesday morning.
The Future Aviators Academy is a unique program that aims to ignite passion, aspiration, and intrigue in the aviation industry within the minds of elementary school students.
The program offers students the opportunity to improve their skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics by sparking interest in STEM-based careers within the aerospace industry, and it aligns with the Civil Air Patrol Program at nearby North Marion Middle School.
According to Marion County Public Schools, all third through fifth-grade students in the Future Aviators Academy will learn by engaging with the fundamental concepts and approaches of aerospace engineering, historical developments in aviation, industry contributions, and aviation regulations and safety.
The program will include engagement in the classroom, exploration of the industry, and an extension of experiences via field trips and guest speakers.
During a ceremony that was held on Wednesday morning, Sparr Elementary School students encountered their first space craft as the Marion County Sheriff’s Office helicopter unit stopped by for a landing and visit.
Sparr Elementary School is located at 2525 E County Road 329 in Sparr.
For more information, contact Sparr Elementary School Principal Renee Johnson via phone (352-671-6060) or email (Renee.Johnson@marion.k12.fl.us).