Cleveland High School’s CTE students to build a two-passenger plane

Cleveland City Schools is known for providing students with real-world opportunities and experiences through its exceptional Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. This year, Cleveland High School's CTE program is set to reach new heights.

Renny Whittenbarger, Supervisor of Career and Technical Education, announced that Cleveland City Schools is now the second school system in Tennessee to collaborate with Tango Flight, an educational non-profit organization, to offer students the unique opportunity to participate in the construction of a two-passenger airplane. Tango Flight is dedicated to delivering STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) curriculum to high school students, with a specific focus on inspiring the next generation of engineers, pilots, aviation mechanics, and technicians.

Whittenbarger emphasized, "Cleveland High School's objective is to provide students with high skill, high wage, and in-demand career learning opportunities. Tango Flight empowers students to work alongside professional mentors in the creation of a fully FAA-approved, two-passenger RV-12iS airplane, from its inception to completion. This initiative aligns with Cleveland City Schools' STEM program, reinforcing our commitment to addressing real-world challenges."

Twelve students are enrolled in the Tango Flight program at Cleveland High School. The goal is to have the airplane project finalized by the end of the school year. With parental consent, students will also have the opportunity to take a ride in the completed plane.

Cleveland City Schools' dedication to offering innovative and hands-on educational experiences continues to set a high standard, ensuring that students are well-prepared for future career opportunities in high-demand fields.