A collaborative initiative to build a flyable airplane at Farmington High School is set to launch in September 2025, marking a significant educational project that aims to engage students in hands-on learning. This partnership involves the school district, a nonprofit organization, and Tango Flight, a nonprofit that specializes in facilitating student plane-building projects.

The program, which has successfully operated in other New Hampshire districts, including Manchester and Lebanon, is designed to be self-sustaining, with funding sourced from community donations rather than local taxpayer dollars. The first plane built by students will be sold to finance subsequent projects, creating a cycle of educational opportunities.

The Farmington project is currently in the planning stages, with a detailed project timeline established prior to the recent departure of the curriculum director, Kathleen Shulman. Her exit raised concerns among project partners about the continuity and administrative support necessary for the program's success. However, the school board has expressed unanimous support for the initiative, and the new curriculum coordinator, Kimberly, is already briefed on the project and committed to its integration into the school’s curriculum.

The project is expected to involve a significant portion of the student body, providing not only technical skills but also fostering teamwork and problem-solving abilities. Tango Flight will provide the airplane kits and technical training, while the local nonprofit will handle fundraising and mentor recruitment.

As preparations continue, the partners are focused on ensuring that the school district maintains the necessary administrative capacity to support the project, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and educational innovation. With $110,000 already secured in tax credits and additional funding leads identified, the project is poised to take off, promising a unique learning experience for students in Farmington.