COVID-19 NOTICE: The K-12 STEM Education Program is temporarily suspended due to the COVID-19 crisis and uncertainties surrounding the fall semester for area schools. The National Museum of World War II Aviation is closely monitoring federal, state and local health authorities for guidance and is evaluating procedures for safely reopening the program once the crisis has passed. Please watch this space for further updates.
K-12 STEM Program
While the National Museum of World War II Aviation is dedicated to historical preservation, its primary mission is education. The museum’s multi-faceted exhibit program presents the story of World War II Aviation in ways that are engaging and enlightening for all ages and knowledge levels—from the casual visitor to the most avid aviation expert.
The museum places special emphasis on the education of young people—who, in many cases, are getting limited exposure to World War II history at school. The cornerstone of this effort is a highly successful K-12 STEM program that reaches beyond the walls of the museum and into the classroom where students learn STEM concepts within the historical context of the World War II era.
STEM Modules
Sky’s the Limit – Grades K-1
Introduces our youngest future aviators to the science, math and excitement of flight. Students take part in hands-on, interactive experiences that teach them the basic principles that make it possible for airplanes to fly.
Keep ‘Em Rolling – Grades 2-3
Students are involved in hands-on, engaging activities that explore the STEM aspects of flight, and learn about the “human” facets of the World War II era.
Salvage for Victory 1 & 2 – Grades 4-5/6-8
Based on the children’s novel On the Wings of Heroes, this program focuses on the recycling and rationing efforts that took place during World War II. Students will conduct their own salvage drive and build airplanes from the materials they collect.
Keep ‘Em Flying – Grades 6-8
Students explore the forces and principles of flight and discover how aircraft work. They will learn how these forces affected the performance of World War II aircraft and use this information to design, build and test their own aircraft.
Wings Up – Grades 9-12
Students investigate the science, math and engineering principles used in the aircraft design process. At the museum, students will use this knowledge to assess the performance characteristics of one of the museum’s World War II aircraft.
Book a Program
The National Museum of World War II Aviation works in close partnership with After School University to provide its popular K-12 STEM Education Program. Programs are offered on Mondays and Wednesdays from September through mid-June.
Our education team is available throughout the year to answer questions and assist you in selecting and scheduling the right program for your group.
To contact a member of the education team, please call or email:
719-314-7791
k12programs@worldwariiaviation.org
“Through our partnership with After School University, we’ve served more than 25,000 students in our K-12 STEM Education Program. As we continue to focus on our education mission, we’re looking forward to exploring new, innovative ways to get kids involved in STEM.”
– Bill Klaers, President and CEO, National Museum of World War II Aviation