Story ID: 
Desert Jet Helps Students 'Travel through Space'
By: Kerry Lynch
Caption: Desert Jet sponsored a field trip for Coachella Valley students to a science museum where they could participate in hands-on STEM activities.
Word Count: 232
As part of its overarching effort to spark interest in aviation, Palms Springs, California-based Desert Jet sponsored an interactive STEM educational field trip for elementary and middle school students in the Coachella Valley. The August 25 field trip to the Discovery Cube Orange County science museum involved 100 students who participated in hands-on exhibits and activities surrounding the theme of "Travel through Space," with a focus on aviation. Activities ranged from a solar system encounter and physics lab to paper airplanes and straw rockets.

“We all know the value of STEM education and the need for a science-based curriculum in our school systems to help engage, inspire, and stimulate the next generation of forward-thinkers,” said Desert Jet CEO Jared Fox. “The Discovery Cube is a wonderful organization that addresses the lack of STEM education in schools by providing a unique and fun hands-on learning experience.”

Some students transition to Desert Mirage High School, where they can participate in its aviation program and have opportunities for Desert Jet shadowing and internship programs.

“Coachella Valley Unified is grateful for our partnership with Desert Jet and the Discovery Cube,” said Coachella Valley USD CTE District Coordinator Marie Perotti. “Field trips are an essential part of student learning, helping them make academic connections to what they are learning in the classroom to the world, as well as inspire their curiosity.”