Mustang High School takes flight with education grant from the Aeronautics Commission
OKLAHOMA CITY – Fifty organizations were awarded Aerospace and Aviation Education Program grants totaling over $365,000 at the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission’s (OAC) August meeting. Grants are for targeted learning programs that have a direct application to aerospace and aviation for primary through post-secondary education. The grant funds are part of the agency’s initiative to give more Oklahoma young people access to STEM careers in the aerospace and aviation industry.
The commission approved a $2,617 grant for Mustang High School for their aviation program which utilizes the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association high school curriculum to prepare students to pass the Federal Aviation Administration’s written private pilot exam prior to flight school in their pursuit of a private pilot’s certificate.
“I’ve conducted interim studies and passed legislation aimed at better supporting Oklahoma’s aerospace and aviation industry,” said Sen. Paul Rosino, R-Oklahoma City. “It’s the second largest industry in the state, and helping high school students jump start their careers will lead to some of the highest salaries out there and create a stronger economy for Oklahoma. That’s what these grants are about and I’m grateful that Mustang High School is able to take advantage of this program.”
The Aerospace and Aviation Education Grant Program has been awarding aviation education grants for over 30 years. Charged with the mission by state statute, the Commission fosters and encourages students to consider aerospace or aviation as a career. The Commission’s grant program has years of positive results. The initiative supports the Oklahoma Works project that aims to address the skills gap and connect students to programs that will help build the workforce of Oklahoma’s second-largest industry.
“Investing in our Aerospace and Aviation Industry is crucial for the long-term success of Oklahoma’s economy. I am grateful for the grant being awarded to the students of Mustang High School as the young people in the communities are an instrumental piece of our future. As we look at the growing industry sectors and the roll they play in our success, there is a unique partnership that can be found between students and industries as they grow and learn together. Thank you to the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission for seeing the value of this partnership and seizing this opportunity. I am eager to see the results for years to come,” said Rep. Brian Hill, House District 47.
The OAC’s nationally recognized program enjoys a positive reputation as one of the most robust aviation education programs among state aviation agencies. For the 2021-22 school year, Oklahoma will rank #3 in the country in the number of schools teaching the AOPA curriculum. Since FY2001, the Commission has awarded $4.15 in aerospace and aviation education grants.
“By continuing to offer strong aviation programs, Mustang Public Schools has taken steps to make a real difference in the lives of their students. We know that these educators are providing students with valuable insight into the potential for a future aviation and aerospace career, and we wish them great success with their program,” said Paula Kedy, MA. Ed., Aerospace and Aviation Education Coordinator for the Commission.
Watch the full meeting at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfvqUmcWmrY&t=15s.