EASA engineering teacher Juanita Clarno was selected in a competitive nomination process to fly along on a U.S. Navy Blue Angels plane at the Intel Oregon Air Show on July 17-19 in Hillsboro.
The ride along program is part of the Blue Angels Key Influencer Rider Program. She was notified of her selection for the Blue Angels ride along during an assembly at MHS.
Clarno said the program recruited nominations from STEM
profressionals this year. She was nominated by members of the community.
” I was nominated by a parent, Colonel Kelly Smothers, National Guard,”
she said. “I have had the honor of having several of his kids and
currently have two at EASA. His kids have been on the robotics team and
are wonderful kids.”
To qualify, Clarno said she had to meet health requirements, pass a physical, and send a bio to the Navy’s selection committee.
“It is an honor to be nominated. We have so many great key
influencers in STEM here in Oregon and at McMinnville High School. I am
looking forward to the flight and to showcasing our EASA students and
their projects at the Oregon International Airshow,” she said.
Her flight is scheduled for July 16, the day before the Airshow opens.