Wathen Foundation Launches Aviation-Oriented Charter School At Flabob

Building on the success of its satellite EAA Air Academy program, the Thomas Wathen Foundation will launch Wathen Aviation High School at Riverside, California's Flabob Airport this coming school year. Twenty-five students will begin a four-year course of study at the new charter school on September 6th.

The innovative new program features core courses such as biology, US history, algebra, geometry and literature. Elective courses relate to aviation as well as hands-on experience in aircraft construction and maintenance. Students will be able to pursue programs in college prep or technical fields leading to vocations in aviation mechanics, avionics, the military and opportunities with commercial airlines, and a variety of additional aviation applications.

"This is a program for young people, who have a clear sense of direction in their lives, or who want to experience enough aviation to make a career decision," said Wathen Foundation Academy President Art Peterson. "We have assembled the resources and personnel to make the program stimulating, informative and highly beneficial to any young person interested in exploring a career in any field related to aviation."

Students will be encouraged to participate in the EAA AeroScholars Program, an online study course that prepares students for the FAA Private Pilot written exam in which they can earn five college credits.

EAA Vice President of Education Dr. Lee Siudzinski, who had several discussions with Peterson during the school's organizational phase, remarked, "EAA is excited about this wonderful opportunity for the Flabob-area students and we look forward to supporting them in this initiative."

Students will spend Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays in classes at the airport. On Mondays and Fridays they can study at home or engage in self-study, engage in tutorial work with residential teachers, or become involved in a variety of "hands-on" aviation projects.

FMI: www.flabob.org/foundation.htm