Spotlighting Excellence: Innovation Takes Flight in Farmington School District

From plane construction and robotics to theme-based summer camps, innovation is blazing new pathways for student success in the Farmington School District.

District leaders and students shared their shared their successes with the state Board of Education in Concord on Nov. 13, with a focus on the “Flying Tigers” program.

The district collaborates with the non-profit Aviation Museum of N.H., and Tango Flight, a Texas non-profit that facilitates student plane-building programs across the nation. Tango Flight’s curriculum introduces STEM-based careers in aerospace, electrical, mechanical, manufacturing and design engineering. Students hone life skills such as teamwork and attention to detail, placing them on a glide path to success after graduation.

Eleven students, guided by 18 mentors, are building a metal RV-12iS single-engine, low-wing, two-seater airplane. Students may earn course credit in math, science or electives.

Dr. Kimberly Sanborn McGlinchey, Director of Curriculum and Learning for SAU 61, and Paul Smith, the instructor and former nuclear test engineer guiding the plane-build program, presented to the state Board. They were joined by Farmington High School students Gabriel Kozlowski and Lorelai Rutherford, who shared their experiences and enthusiasm for “Flying Tigers.” Both are considering careers in engineering.

Dr. McGlinchey emphasized that “Flying Tigers” is only one of several expanded learning opportunities offered in the 2024-25 school year. These offerings included Project-Based Learning initiatives, a Robotics Team and STEAM program, and free “Swinging into Summer” enrichment mini-camps for K-12 students.

These programs are supported by grants and federal funding, and through generous donations from the Friends of Farmington.

Dr. Mark MacLean, Executive Director of the NHSAA, said, “This is a great example of schools, community groups, and businesses working together to innovate education and spark a passion in young learners. Dr. McGlinchey, her team, her students, and Farmington’s learning community should be commended for their ongoing and collective commitment to SAU #61. Public education and opportunities for students thrive when we all work collaboratively to support student success.”