Sandy High School

The Aviation Sciences program is a proposed Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathway designed to propel Sandy High School students into the high-demand world of flight and aeronautics. By blending academics with hands-on technical training, this program provides a clear runway for students to transition from high school to professional pilot training or aerospace engineering.

Program Overview

This Program of Promise centers on a comprehensive curriculum that moves students from the classroom to the cockpit. The cornerstone of the program is the integration of Advanced Flight Simulation technology, allowing students to log simulated flight hours and master FAA-aligned ground school concepts before they ever leave the ground.

Key Components

• FAA-Aligned Ground School: Students study aerodynamics, navigation, meteorology, and FAA regulations, preparing them for the Private Pilot Knowledge Test.
• Simulated Flight Training: Utilizing state-of-the-art flight simulators, students practice maneuvers, emergency procedures, and instrument flight in a safe, controlled environment.
• Dual Credit & Industry Certifications: Future opportunities to earn college credits through regional partners and work toward the FAA Private Pilot Certificate or Remote Pilot (Drone) License.
• Career Exploration: Site visits to local airports (like Sandy River or PDX), guest speakers from the industry, and partnerships with flight schools to bridge the gap between simulation and real-world flight.

Why Aviation at Sandy High School?

The aviation industry is currently facing a historic labor shortage. By establishing this program, the Oregon Trail School District is providing students with a competitive edge in a field that offers high-wage, high-skill careers. Whether a student aspires to be a commercial pilot, a drone technician, or an aerospace engineer, this program provides the foundational "hours" and knowledge to make those dreams take flight.

AVIATION TECHNOLOGY 1

Entry Level: 9th grade 

Length: Year or Double-block semester

This course will introduce students to aviation, aerospace history and engineering design. This course will provide the foundation for future aviation skills.

AVIATION TECHNOLOGY 2

Entry Level: 9th grade 

Length: Year or Double-block semester

Prerequisite: Aviation Technology 1

This course will build upon the knowledge learned in Aviation Tech 1. Students will learn about forces of flight, various aircraft systems and aircraft performance. Students may also experience the flight simulator to complete enrichment activities.

AVIATION TECHNOLOGY 3

Entry Level: 10th grade 

Length: Year 

Prerequisite: Aviation Technology 2

Students will learn how to make flight decisions based on weather conditions and will begin flight planning. Additional time will be spent in the flight simulator to provide authentic learning experiences and gain flight hours. 

AVIATION TECHNOLOGY 4

Entry Level: 9th grade 

Length: Year 

Prerequisite: Aviation Technology 3

Students in this “pilot course” will gain skills in using flight instruments to make decisions and guide flight paths, learn advanced aircraft procedures and will research the future of aerospace. Additionally, students will log hours in the flight simulator that may be used towards pilot certification.