Meet LPS Focus Program Scholar: Natalie, Aviation and Technical Education

December 20, 2024

Lincoln Public Schools Focus Programs are a customized high school experience rooted in connection and opportunities. 

LPS offers our scholars - like North Star junior Natalie - almost a dozen focus programs to experience. She is taking her learning to new heights with the Aviation and Technical Education Focus Program. Her interest in the aviation industry and some encouragement from one of her teachers led her to the opportunity. 

Read more about Natalie’s Aviation and Technical Education experience in this Q&A as she is one of our featured Focus Program Scholars.   

 

Name: Natalie

Home High School: North Star High School 

Grade: 11

Focus Program: Aviation and Technical Education 

 

Why did you choose the Aviation and Technical Education Focus Program?

I love working with my hands and learning new things. Every day we do something new. 

 

What do you like most about the Aviation and Technical Education Focus Program?

The thing I love most about the Aviation and Technical Education Focus Program is meeting so many new people and getting to work with my hands every single day. 

What makes the Aviation and Technical Education Focus Program different?

What makes the Aviation and Technical Education Focus Program different from other programs is the relationships you build with future employers and the amazing staff. You can either work with a few classmates on a project, by yourself or hands-on with the teachers. 

 

How do you get to explore your passions or interests at the Aviation and Technical Education Focus Program?  

I am interested in working in the air traffic control tower. By being in the Aviation and Technical Education Focus Program, I can spend an entire day walking around the local air traffic control towers on a private tour. 

How has attending the Aviation and Technical Education Focus Program empowered you as a student?

I was always shy and an awkward freshman, but now I’m a confident leader who knows when to stand up and stay quiet while following orders. 

 

What are your relationships with other students and staff like within the Aviation and Technical Education Focus Program?

I have made great connections with many of my classmates and the staff. I help in many of the classes so that I can help other students reach their full potential. 

 

How has being a part of a LPS Focus Program added to your high school experience? 

I don't know where I would be if I weren’t in this program. I am a part of many different clubs and activities but the Aviation and Technical Education Focus Program has made me who I am today. 

How has the Aviation and Technical Education Focus Program prepared you for the future?

Planning for the future is easy when I have many people to answer my questions or get private tours or even a one-on-one meet and greet. 

 

Why are focus programs like the Aviation and Technical Education Focus Program important to high school students?

Focus programs give students a chance to become something that they want to be. There are many different focus programs for students to choose and many different fields. 

 

What is the greatest thing you’ve learned since attending the Aviation and Technical Education Focus Program? 

The greatest thing I've learned is how to lead. I have definitely learned a lot of hands-on skills, but there are many other students who know more about machines or planes than me. I can lead them into a great path, just like how I’ve led people into finishing a project, joining this focus program, or even through a hard time in their life. 

Choose your passion. Choose your community. Choose your future with LPS Focus Programs. 

Learn more about the Aviation and Technical Education Focus Program by visiting its website at https://aviation.lps.org/.

Don’t forget also to explore LPS Focus Programs at home.lps.org/focus.

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