Oklahoma Aviation Academy teacher awarded $1,000 by Every Kid Counts Oklahoma

Every Kid Counts Oklahoma (EKCO) is partnering with local businesses for a second year to award innovative Oklahoma educators throughout the state with a $1,000 scholarship that goes directly to their classroom.

EKCO, along with business leader Wade Eyerly, presented the $1,000 scholarship to Oklahoma Aviation Academy English teacher Giana Hill for her outstanding work to innovate in the classroom. 

“Oklahoma educators are some of the best and brightest in the profession and EKCO is honored to recognize their hard work and innovation,” said EKCO Executive Director Ryan Walters. “It is our goal to empower teachers and provide them with the resources and support they need to be successful.”

Hill is integrating cross-curricular programming in her English classroom. She has been creative in finding ways to teach core English concepts with an aviation and STEM focus through the gateway of reading. 

“I do not have a background in aviation, but I am passionate about providing excellent education and opportunity for every student and this program does that in a new and exciting way, so I just had to get on board,” Hill said.  

On October 12th, EKCO’s Business Engagement Director Mike Robins visited the school along with Eyerly to present the check to Hill. EKCO provided the initial $500 scholarship and Eyerly, the founder of Surf Air, matched the amount. 

“Aviation is an industry that has outstanding career pathways, teaming with innovation and wonderful hands-on experiences. The excitement and opportunities available for students at the academy are made possible because of the passion and expertise of visionary teachers,” said Eyerly. “I would invite business leaders in any industry to support educational opportunities like the Oklahoma Aviation Academy.” 

The $1,000 scholarship will go directly to Hill’s classroom. She plans to use the funds to purchase literature for her students. The new books will have an aviation focus with the purpose of teaching students about aviation’s past and present with a look toward the future.

Pictured left to right: Terry Adams, Director of the Aviation Academy; Mike Robins, EKCO Business Engagement Director; Wade Eyerly, Founder of Surf Air; Oklahoma Aviation Academy English teacher Giana Hill.