HISD launches aviation program

A course of study offered to Hallettsville High School students this year involves aerospace and aviation with Jim Baker, operator of the Hallettsville Airport, serving as its instructor.

According to superintendant, Dr. Jo Ann Bludau, through the District of Innovation Plan, HISD is able to hire part-time professionals to teach courses as well as allow industry experts to transfer into the teaching profession within various course roles.

Bludau said Baker is the founder and director of the Texas Barnstorming Museum, a non profit organization which operates at the Hallettsville Airport.

She said the museum identifies local youth interested in learning to fly, and so far has helped 7 local youngsters realize their dreams to become professional commercial pilots.

“Through an agreement with the school, each student enrolled in the Aviation class will have the opportunity to learn to fly and even participate in activities with the Texas Barnstorming Museum outside of school,” Bludau said.

The course, known as the Introduction to Aerospace and Aviation Course, allows HHS to provide the foundation for advanced exploration in the areas of professional pilot, aerospace engineering, and unmanned aircraft systems.

“Students will learn about the history of aviation, from Leonardo da Vinci’s ideas about flight to the Wright brothers and the space race,” Baker said. “Also along the way, students will learn about the innovations and technological developments that have made today’s aviation and aerospace industries possible. The course includes engineering practices, the design process, aircraft structure, space vehicles past and present, and a look toward future space exploration.”

Baker said the class will include field trips and various guest speakers such as commercial and military pilots, NASA engineers, aircraft mechanics and other subject matter experts in various Aviation related fields.

In addition, the students will learn about the wide variety of exciting and rewarding careers available to them.

“The Introduction to Aerospace and Aviation course will inspire students to consider aviation and other aerospace careers while laying the foundation for continued study in grades 10 through 12,” Baker said.

This course is recommended for students in grade 9-11.