AFA Educator Grant Helps Students Take Flight

Mellissa Pfaff, a teacher at Academy High School in Thornton, Colo., used an AFA Educator Grant to give her entire STEM classroom a hands-on experience with the principles of aerodynamics at iFLY, an indoor skydiving facility. This hands-on activity not only provided a thrilling connection to the principles of flight but also emphasized the importance of precision, focus, and collaboration.

Before experiencing “flying,” the students participated in an interactive presentation on real-world STEM applications, learning how science, technology, engineering, and math are used in everyday life and careers. They tackled lab activities and immersive experiments, measuring, recording data, and interpreting results to enhance their critical thinking and analytical skills—even the math enthusiasts were challenged!

Beyond the activities, the program introduced students to future possibilities in STEM and aviation. They left with a renewed curiosity and a deeper understanding of how the skills they are learning today could translate into impactful careers tomorrow.

This transformative experience was made possible by the Air & Space Forces Association’s support. It expanded the students’ horizons, sparking a stronger interest in STEM and aviation while equipping them with inspiration and knowledge that will last a lifetime. For many of Pfaff’s students, who otherwise might not have had this opportunity, the experience was invaluable. These young minds are poised to change the world, and AFA has been a part of making that possible.