Corvallis Middle School to receive flight simulator for STEM education

NORWALK — Corvallis Middle School students will soon get the chance to experience the thrill of aviation without leaving the ground. The Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District announced that the school’s STEAM Magnet program will receive a Students In Aviation (SIA) flight simulator this fall, giving students hands-on opportunities to connect classroom learning with real-world applications.

The simulator is scheduled for delivery by Oct. 25, with the first student flights expected to launch in January 2026. About 31 students enrolled in Flight & Space and related Project Lead the Way courses will be the first to train on the new equipment.

“This simulator turns textbook concepts into real cockpit experience,” said Corvallis science teacher and PLTW instructor Sarah Malec. “Our students will ‘take off’ into STEM and see themselves as future pilots, engineers, and technologists.”

The technology comes courtesy of the Wisconsin-based SIA Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to sparking interest in aviation careers. Since its founding in 2016, SIA has donated more than 50 simulators to schools across the country at no cost to students or districts. The program also offers free online ground school, scholarships, and mentorship from aviation professionals.

Principal Alejandra Rosales said the simulator reflects Corvallis’ commitment to preparing students for the future. “The flight simulator is more than just technology—it’s a launchpad for imagination, exploration, and career discovery. We’re proud to be at the forefront of STEM education and grateful to bring this opportunity to our students,” she said.

District officials said the project aligns with Norwalk-La Mirada Unified’s mission to empower students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to thrive in an ever-changing world.