The Western Museum of Flight has instituted, and continues to hone, the Kids Love Aviation Science (KLAS) program. The goal of this program is to expose the next generation to the educational and inspirational dynamics of flight, with the hope that they pursue careers in aviation science and technology.
In this year-round program, students are transported at no cost to the museum from low-income communities in Los Angeles and provided Science Technology Engineering Math (STEM) learning activities that cover the fundamental principles of physics, mathematics, and engineering utilized to produce modern aircraft. Additionally, trained docents provide detailed tours of the aircraft on display and discuss the impact of aviation industry in Southern California.
The KLAS curriculum features engaging hands-on learning lessons, incorporating the use of actual aircraft materials, maps, pilot attire, and the controls of the cockpit. At the conclusion of the program, students construct their own model airplanes.
Thanks to the generosity of the Kenneth T. and Eileen L. Norris Foundation and the Boeing Employee Community Fund, the Western Museum of Flight has been able to recently expand the Kids Love Aviation Science program to include an all new, interactive exhibit entitled “Women in Aerospace”. This exhibit will incorporate the use of special collections artifacts from the historic “Ninety-Nine’s,” an all-female pilot group formed in 1929 that included Amelia Earhart. The goal of this exhibit is to instill independent thinking in young students while simultaneously informing them of the challenges faced by women historically. The Women in Aviation exhibit is expected to be completed by December 2020.
Our program impacts approximately 500 students per year. With an expanding program, we aim to increase those numbers considerably each year.
How to Make a Reservation
If you are interested in making a reservation for your class to attend the KLAS program, or know someone who might be interested, please email to: info@wmof.com. Please note: Children must be 7 years of age and up to participate.