It’s an activity that captures their imaginations and helps them learn about things like metric measurement, proportions, research, density, convection, data collection and analysis. Constructing model hot air balloons also helps students at the Academy of Aerospace Technology at Oakleaf High School learn to work as teams as they transform tissue paper into competitive high flying aircrafts.

Congratulations to all of the students and the efforts of their instructors. The Academy opened last fall with 78 students enrolled. It soon grew to more than 180 students in just one school year.

To learn more about the Academy of Aerospace Technology and the various other Academies open to Clay County students, visit www.claycte.com. The Career & Technical Education Department will also be hosting an Academy Expo Open House on Thursday, March 8, 2012 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Middleburg, located at 2645 Blanding Boulevard. All 8th and 9th grade parents and students are encouraged to attend.