Celebrate Freedom Foundation Inspires 6th Graders with High-Flying STEM Careers in Aeronautics and Drone Operations
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Students in the 6th grade at Barnwell Elementary School (BES) recently had a unique and exciting opportunity to learn about careers in aeronautics, drone operations, and other high-tech fields, thanks to a visit from the Celebrate Freedom Foundation (CFF).
This inspiring and educational event was part of CFF’s STEM Education and Workforce Development Outreach Program, a veteran-led initiative that brings hands-on STEM learning directly to schools across the Southeast. Made possible through Title I federal funding, the program aims to ignite student interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and connect classroom learning to real-world career paths.
6th graders at BES study aeronautical equipment during the CFF Visit.
The outreach session, led by military veterans who are experts in aviation and drone technology, gave students a firsthand look at how STEM skills are used in modern aeronautics and unmanned systems. Veterans not only shared their personal experiences and technical knowledge but also served as role models, demonstrating how STEM education can lead to exciting, purpose-driven careers.
“We’re thrilled to host the Celebrate Freedom Foundation and give our students access to such an impactful program,” said Ms. Jennifer Jensen, sixth grade ELA teacher. “Their enthusiasm and real-world expertise helped our students see how STEM can be applied in powerful and meaningful ways.” Ms. Jensen first learned about the foundation last year and took the initiative to coordinate their visit to BES. Her goal was to expose students to a variety of career paths and inspire them to set meaningful goals for their future.
The Celebrate Freedom Foundation’s mission is twofold: to inspire youth toward STEM careers in order to help build an American workforce that is vital to the health of our economy and the preservation of freedom and to provide military veterans with a renewed sense of purpose by engaging them as educators and mentors in CFF’s STEM outreach initiatives. The program has reached thousands of students in South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee, with more schools scheduled for visits in the coming months. CFF’s immersive presentations, often including drone demonstrations and aviation technology displays, are a proven way to spark curiosity and foster long-term interest in STEM subjects.
As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) educational and historical organization, CFF is dedicated not only to educating the next generation but also to honoring America’s military—past, present, and future.
For more information on the Celebrate Freedom Foundation and their STEM Outreach Program, visit www.celebratefreedomfoundation.org.
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For more information, contact:
Barnwell County School District Superintendent Office
Phone: (803) 541-3590
Email: cstapleton@bcsd.net