Adrian, MI – Prairie Elementary School and the Adrian Composite Squadron have been named the recipients of the prestigious “National ACE Plus Adopt Collaborative Squadron and School Teams of the Year Award”. This national recognition celebrates their exceptional work in mentoring students and fostering a strong connection between aerospace education and community service. The award is a testament to the impact of their collaboration through the Civil Air Patrol’s Aerospace Connections in Education (ACE) program.
The ACE program is designed to inspire and educate students in grades K-8, with a focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through aerospace-related activities. Through the ACE Plus Adopt initiative, local Civil Air Patrol squadrons are paired with schools to provide mentorship and leadership development for students.
One of the driving forces behind the success of this program at Prairie Elementary is Ryan Neesam, a teacher at Prairie who took on the challenge of joining CAP as a member and coordinating the ACE program for his students. “It’s been an incredible opportunity to connect my students with real-world aerospace concepts and leadership skills. The mentorship from CAP members has been invaluable in enhancing their learning experience,” said Neesam.
“We are incredibly honored to receive this national recognition,” said Callie Yatzek, Dean of Students at Prairie Elementary School. “The partnership with Adrian Composite Squadron has been invaluable in exposing our students to exciting opportunities in aerospace and STEM. This award is a reflection of the dedication and enthusiasm that both our students and mentors have brought to this program. I’d like to extend a special thanks to Lieutenant Colonel Richard King, Director of Aerospace Education for the Civil Air Patrol, and Captain Ken DeRemer for their leadership and continuous support, which have been pivotal to our success.”
Nate Parker, Superintendent of Adrian Public Schools, praised the accomplishment: “This award showcases the incredible teamwork between Prairie Elementary School and Adrian Composite Squadron. It’s wonderful to see the passion for learning and leadership that this program instills in our students. We are proud to be part of an initiative that helps shape the future of aerospace and STEM education.”
The award is part of the larger Civil Air Patrol’s Aerospace Connections in Education (ACE) program, which, since its inception, has impacted over 638,000 students nationwide. Adrian Composite Squadron and Prairie Elementary School join a select group of schools across the country honored for their exceptional contributions to aerospace education.
For more information on the Aerospace Connections in Education program, please visit the Civil Air Patrol’s website at www.gocivilairpatrol.com/programs/aerospace-education/ace.
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*featured image- From Left to Right: Captain Ken DeRemer, Dean of Students Callie Yatzek, Superintendent Nate Parker, and Lieutenant Colonel Richard King. Media courtesy of Adrian Public Schools*