The "Winchester STEM and Aeronautics Program" is funded through the NASA TEAM II Community Anchor initiative, led by STEM Flights in partnership with Winchester Regional Airport, Winchester Regional Aviation Foundation, and regional public schools.

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This initiative connects middle-school students across Frederick, Clarke, Shenandoah, and Warren Counties and Winchester City to real aerospace career exploration. Supported by NASA’s Aeronautics Mission Directorate, the program will reach over 1,000 students through Aerospace Day, hands-on classroom visits, and ongoing educational resources designed to inspire the next generation of innovators and aviators.

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Serving Middle Schools with these zero cost programs: 

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1. Classroom Activities (FREE) STEM Flights educators bring NASA lessons directly into classrooms. Each hands on session meets Virginia STEM standards and connects students to real science and flight. Discover the Virginia Standards of Learning that this program supports.  Materials are provided at no cost,  and educators can learn more and sign up here.

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2. ​​Aerospace Day at Winchester Regional Airport (FREE) Transportation provided for select number of students from each participating school to Winchester Regional Airport. Join us for a hands-on day where students and teachers explore NASA exhibits, aircraft displays, and career pathways with aerospace professionals from local and national aviation companies.  Spring 2026 at Winchester Regional Airport.  Dates TBD. 

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3. Educator Engagement (FREE)
Participating Teachers receive a FREE digital NASA Educator Resource website curated from the NASA Connects platform, along with Student Next Steps and optional monthly virtual check ins for classroom support and alignment with NASA Aeronautics content. 

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4. Student Flight Opportunities (FREE)
Students who show continued interest can experience a FREE flight through STEM Flights, guided by a volunteer pilot mentor. They also gain access to mentorship and advanced training through partners such as the Virginia Space Grant Consortium.

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5. NASA Educator Conference (FREE)
In 2026, three regional educators will be selected to attend a NASA Educators Conference. Travel, stipend, hotel, and registration are fully funded through the NASA Community Anchor program. The dates have not been released by NASA,  but we expect Summer 2026. 

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Learn more, read FAQ, sign up for classroom visits, and discover NASA Aeronautics resources here.

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