Mrs. Nicole Schatzle’s JPII 8th grade science class recently took their study of flight and space to new heights with a special classroom visit from Barbara Humphrey, an Instructional Designer with Gulfstream Aerospace. This hands-on and high-flying lesson brought the aerospace industry straight to JPII, giving students a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build one of the world’s most advanced private jets.

Ms. Humphrey’s presentation dove into the engineering and design process behind Gulfstream aircraft, exploring everything from the essential components of an airplane and how they function to the collaborative efforts required to bring such an extraordinary machine to life. Students had the chance to experience the science of flight firsthand through a fun and interactive paper jet build challenge, where they tested their own designs and learned about aerodynamics in action.

To make the day even more memorable, each student received a souvenir from Gulfstream—a keepsake to inspire them as they continue exploring the possibilities of science, technology, and engineering.

"Visits like this help students understand how classroom concepts apply in the real world, especially in high-tech industries like aerospace engineering and aviation," said Mrs. Schatzle. "Learning directly from professionals offers insight into STEM careers, inspires creativity, and reinforces key scientific principles like lift, thrust, drag, and gravity.

"By exploring how companies like Gulfstream design and build cutting-edge planes, students gain exposure to fields like aeronautics, mechanical engineering, design, and flight systems—all of which are essential to modern innovation and exploration, including space travel."

From folding paper planes to imagining themselves one day working in a Gulfstream hangar, this visit reminded students that fun and learning go hand in hand. Interactive lessons spark curiosity, fuel imagination, and help students make lasting connections to the material.

Thanks to Mrs. Schatzle and Ms. Humphrey, our 8th graders didn’t just study flight—they launched their understanding into the stratosphere!