Baldwin UFSD Celebrates National Aviation History Month with Inaugural School2Career “Navigation Day”
In recognition of National Aviation History Month, students from Baldwin High School’s STEM Academy along with Brookside Elementary School’s 4th and 5th graders participated in the district’s inaugural “Navigation Day”—a hands-on celebration of aeronautics, engineering, and discovery.
The educational experience, developed in partnership with Lockheed Martin and the Lufbery Flyers, reinforces Baldwin Union Free School District’s ongoing commitment to STEM excellence and real-world learning experiences that prepare students for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
The day featured a series of engaging, experiential activities led by industry experts and educators, bringing flight and navigation principles to life.
Drone and Aviation Demonstrations
Area drone experts from the Lufbery Flyers introduced students to the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), discussing aviation safety, airspace, and the many types of aircraft including planes, drones, and helicopters. Students also learned about what it takes to become a qualified radio-controlled pilot. The presentation culminated in live demonstrations, a Q&A session, and a dynamic show-and-tell.
Additionally, Lockheed Martin had their experts dive into the topic of submarine navigation, giving students a deeper look at how navigation principles work underwater and the differences and challenges of submarine navigation versus surface ships.
Elementary Students Take Flight
Following the high school program, Lufbery Flyers visited Brookside Elementary, where students experimented with the principles of flight through hands-on activities. Using paper gliders, students tested aerodynamics firsthand, connecting scientific theory with physical hands-on learning experimentation.
Honoring Baldwin’s Proud Aviation Legacy
Baldwin’s connection to aviation runs deep. In May 1910, brothers Arthur and Albert Heinrich made history by designing and flying the first all-American monoplane at the very site where Plaza Elementary School now stands. The community also shares ties with the Grumman Corporation, founded in Baldwin in 1929–30, which became a powerhouse in aerospace innovation.
Adding to this remarkable legacy, alumna Jasmin Moghbeli, now a NASA astronaut, continues to inspire Baldwin students.
Through Navigation Day, Baldwin UFSD celebrates not only National Aviation History Month but also its enduring tradition of innovation, creativity, and achievement—encouraging today’s students to reach new heights in science and discovery.
National Aviation History Month officially began on November 1, but for Baldwin students, the journey into the world of aerodynamics and technology caught an early flight!