Course Descriptions

Aerospace Science I

Grade: 9-12

The first year is a history course designed to acquaint the student with the historical development of flight and the role of the military in history. About three-quarters of the available classroom hours are spent reviewing the development of flight from ancient legends through the Persian Gulf War and beyond. Additionally, the role of the military throughout the history of the U.S. is identified. Many of the hours dedicated to leadership studies relate directly to the academic subject matter, with study habits and time management. Additionally, wear of the uniform, Air Force customs and courtesies, and basic drill are introduced.

Aerospace Science II

Grade: 10-12

The second year is a science course designed to acquaint the student with the aerospace environment, the human requirements of flight, principles of aircraft flight, and principles of navigation. The course begins with a discussion of the atmosphere and weather. After developing an understanding of the environment, how that environment affects flight is introduced. Discussions include the forces of lift, drag, thrust, and weight. Students also learn basic navigation including map reading, course plotting, and the effects of wind. The portion on the human requirements of flight is a survey course on human physiology. Discussed here are the human circulatory system, the effects of acceleration and deceleration, and protective equipment. Leadership hours stress communication skills and cadet corps activities. Written reports and speeches compliment academic materials. Cadet corps activities include holding positions of greater responsibility in the planning and execution of corps projects.

Aerospace Science III

Grade: 11-12

The third year is a science course which examines our Earth, the moon and the planets, the latest advances in technology, and continuing challenges of space and manned space flight. Issues critical to travel in the upper atmosphere such as orbits and trajectories, unmanned satellites, space probes, guidance and control systems are explained. The manned space-flight section covers major milestones in the endeavor to land on the Moon, and to safely orbit humans and crafts in space for temporary and prolonged periods. It also covers the development of space stations, the Space Shuttle and its future, and international laws for the use of and travel of space. Leadership III hours emphasis is on managing others, stress and finances; citizenship, and ethics. Third year cadets put these skills into practice by holding key leadership positions in the cadet corps.

Aerospace Science IV Honors (Private Pilot Ground School)

Grade: 11-12

This course details the principles of light, navigation, weather, Federal Aviation Regulations, aircraft operations, and air traffic controls necessary to pass the Federal Aviation Administration written examination for the Private Pilot Certificate. Upon successful completion of this course, students receive authorization to take the FAA written examination. Course instructors are all FAA Certified Ground Instructors. Each year cadets participate in leadership activities through laboratory and classroom work. The curriculum includes studies in the human relations, resource management, and communication skills. Course work is designed to prepare students for leadership positions in any military or civilian career. Naturally, there are courses on military customs and courtesies and flag etiquette. In addition, instruction in the basic marching positions, movements and commands for parades and ceremonies form a significant portion of the course work.

Aerospace Science IV (Leadership)

Grade: 12

The cadets manage the entire cadet corps during the fourth year. This hands on experience affords the cadets the opportunity to put the theories of previous leadership courses into practice. All the planning, organizing, coordinating, directing, controlling, and decision-making will be done by the cadets. They practice their communication, decision-making, personal interaction, managerial, and organizational skills. Emphasis is placed on which path to take after high school with information on how to apply for admission to college, how to begin the job search including filling out the job application, writing the resume, and how to prepare for the job interview. Additionally, the career opportunities in the aerospace industry and the Air Force are covered

Advanced Aerospace Science

Grade: 12

A special leadership course for selected seniors who serve as military training officers to AS-I classes. Students must have instructor's approval to take this course. These students practice management skills and lead by example.

Aerospace Science I must be taken and completed before enrolling in any other course. Any grade level may be in any course except Advanced Aerospace Science and the dual-enrolled courses. Students who do not meet the course standards must transfer out at the semester. It is possible to take two Aerospace Science courses (example: AS-II and AS-III) the same year with guidance and AFJROTC permission. Permission to enroll in all AFJROTC courses must be obtained in advance from Principal and AFJROTC staff.