A rare national honor that brings real-world STEM and aerospace training directly to the classroom

At American High School Academy (AHSA), we don’t just prepare students for college—we connect them to careers in aviation, aerospace, AI, and engineering. Now, we’ve been recognized at the national level by NASA (NASA WRATS).

In addition to our commitment to aviation and aerospace, we also emphasize the importance of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in education. This approach not only prepares students for current job markets but also equips them with skills for future technological advancements.

With a focus on innovative education, our students gain insights from programs led by ‘nasa trained’ educators who have undergone rigorous training in their fields.

At the recent AOPA You Can Fly High School STEM Symposium in Atlanta, Georgia, aviation education took center stage as two influential leaders connected: legendary aerobatic pilot and Bob Hoover Academy founder Sean D. Tucker met with Mr. Reinaldo Valentino, Head of Schools at American High School Academy (AHSA)—an award-winning skydiver, licensed pilot, and nationally recognized STEM innovator.

In a highly competitive selection process, NASA has invited AHSA’s Head of Schools, Mr. Reinaldo Valentino, to attend the prestigious Wallops Rocket Academy for Teachers (WRATS) 2025, hosted at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center – Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia. This initiative is part of our efforts to provide hands-on experiences that align with the NASA WRATS 2025 program, ensuring that students are prepared for the future of aerospace and research, especially in light of the upcoming NASA WRATS 2025 opportunities.

🗓 August 11–15, 2025
📍 Wallops Island, VA

It’s not every day your child gets the benefit of a Head of Schools trained by NASA. This ‘nasa

trained’ experience is what makes AHSA different.

 

What Is WRATS?

The Wallops Rocket Academy for Teachers (WRATS) is a NASA-led aerospace educator training program designed to bring advanced STEM concepts to life in high school classrooms.

During the WRATS program, educators will engage in hands-on learning experiences. For example, they will build rockets from scratch, gaining insight into the engineering design process. This experience allows teachers to bring authentic aerospace education back to their classrooms, inspiring the next generation of innovators.

Each year, only a select group of educators nationwide are chosen to:

✅ Build and launch real model rockets
✅ Learn NASA protocols in flight safety and rocket dynamics
✅ Work alongside engineers and mission planners
✅ And witness a live rocket launch

Furthermore, participants will have the opportunity to attend workshops led by leading NASA engineers, who will share the latest trends in rocketry and space exploration. This exclusive access to industry experts enhances the educational experience and provides invaluable networking opportunities.

This elite experience brings real-world rocketry and engineering directly back to AHSA students—setting our school apart at both state and national levels.

AHSA’s curriculum will also incorporate lessons learned from the WRATS program. By implementing these practical applications, students can see the real-world implications of their studies, bridging the gap between theory and practice.

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 Why Wallops Island Matters

Located off Virginia’s Eastern Shore, Wallops Island has been a NASA launch site since 1945. It has supported more than 16,000 rocket missions for:

Wallops Island serves as a significant site for various NASA missions. The island not only supports rocket launches but also acts as a research hub for atmospheric studies. Engaging students in discussions about the island’s contributions to science encourages them to think critically about the impact of aerospace research on everyday life.

🚀 Atmospheric science
🚀 Space weather exploration
🚀 Suborbital launch testing

AHSA’s participation in a program hosted at this historic launch site gives students a direct connection to one of the most important aerospace facilities in the United States.

Moreover, students will learn about the historical significance of Wallops Island in the context of American space exploration. Understanding the history of rocket launches from this site can inspire students to pursue careers in aerospace and engineering.

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What This Means for Your Child

This is more than a NASA invitation—it’s a clear signal that AHSA offers something rare: a direct line between aviation high school and high-tech, high-paying careers.

This recognition from NASA signifies that AHSA is not just educating students; we are shaping future leaders in technology and engineering fields. The skills and experiences gained through this partnership will enable students to excel in a competitive job market.

At AHSA, your child can:

✅ Earn FAA Part 107 Drone Certification
✅ Complete Private Pilot Ground School
✅ Train using flight simulators, drones, and aerospace engineering labs
✅ Graduate with college credits through dual enrollment
✅ Learn through AI and STEM innovation labs
✅ Study at two campuses, including one on a college campus
✅ Benefit from a Cognia®-accredited, NCAA-approved academic model
💸 Pay $0 tuition with Step Up for Students scholarships (for most Florida families)

In addition to these certifications, students are also encouraged to partake in internships and mentorships. These opportunities allow students to connect with professionals in the field, giving them a head start in their careers.

This is how education becomes a launchpad, not a holding pattern.

Such hands-on experiences are essential in today’s job market, as employers are increasingly seeking candidates with practical experience alongside academic qualifications.

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Why Parents Choose AHSA

2 Campus Locations:

Kendall / South Miami Campus

AHSA combines the freedom and flexibility of private education with the structure, support, and outcomes of a career-focused school.

Parents choose AHSA because:

✅ We offer real certifications, not just credits
✅ Students graduate college- and career-ready
✅ Our programs open doors to aviation, aerospace, tech, AI, and engineering
✅ We care about results—not just report cards

Our dedicated team continuously evaluates educational trends to ensure our curriculum remains relevant and engaging. This proactive approach not only benefits students but also reassures parents that their children are receiving a high-quality education.

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Enroll Now – Seats Are Limited

Give your child more than a classroom—give them a future.

By choosing AHSA, parents are investing in an educational model that prioritizes student success. We aim to provide an environment where students can explore their passions while receiving the support and resources they need to thrive.

📞 Call: 305-270-1440
🌐 Visit: www.AmericanHighSchoolAcademy.com
📝 Apply Now

 

Help Launch More Students into STEM Careers

 

AHSA proudly partners with AMCAI.org, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing underprivileged students access to:

Through initiatives like AMCAI.org, AHSA helps extend educational opportunities to students who may otherwise lack access. This partnership underscores our commitment to equity in education.

✈️ Drone labs
✈️ Flight simulators
✈️ Aerospace & engineering programs
✈️ Tuition assistance and scholarships

Your 100% tax-deductible donation helps more students access NASA-level opportunities.

We encourage community involvement to help us reach more students. Donations not only support current programs but also pave the way for future innovations in education.

www.amcai.org/donate