BRADENTON, Florida — When the 2026-27 academic year kicked off, students at Team Success: A School of Excellence in Bradenton began learning more than just math, science, and history.
Through a partnership with Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (KSRQ) and Cirrus Aviation, the charter school expanded its STEM program for sixth- through 12th-graders with a new elective course that explores careers in the aviation industry.
“As a charter school serving students of all backgrounds, it’s important to us that our students are exposed to career opportunities beyond the four walls of an office,” said Fred Spence, CEO and founder of Team Success, a charter school serving K-12 students in Manatee County. “Many students are pursuing routes that do not require traditional four-year degree programs, so through this partnership, it’s our hope that students will discover an unknown passion and find a career path meant for them.”
The school’s campus is adjacent to Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport and Cirrus Aviation’s base of operations, creating natural opportunities for collaboration, according to officials. Representatives from the airport and flight school visited Team Success during the 2025-26 school year to give students a sneak peek at the 2026-27 program, and students also took field trips to see aviation in action. Additionally, a Delta Air Lines pilot hosted a Q&A session with students.
Officials with the airport and flight school created a four-phase Intro to Aviation program for students. Phase One covers the foundation, including an introduction to aviation, history and aircraft types, aerodynamics, aircraft parts and instruments, and career pipelines. Phase Two spotlights airport operations, including airport infrastructure, airline operations, security, and airport marketing and business. In Phase Three, students will learn about Airspace and Air Traffic Control (ATC), which focuses on airspace systems, ATC rules and communication, aviation weather, and military aviation. Phase Four concentrates on safety and maintenance, with lessons covering aircraft maintenance, fire and crash rescue, ground handling and logistics, and career pathways.
The inaugural aviation program will run throughout the 2026-27 school year and includes both coursework in the classroom and site visits to KSRQ to learn about career opportunities and airport operations.
For more information: TeamSuccessSchools.org, FlySRQ.com, CirrusAviation.com
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