Air Force Academy High School (AFAHS), the Chicago Public Schools’ sixth military academy, opened Sept. 8 at 1301 W. 14th St. With 127 freshman student-cadets enrolled now, it will add one new class per year until it counts a full roster of freshmen through seniors.

AFAHS offers a college preparatory curriculum emphasizing aerospace science, engineering, reading, and writing. Also, every five weeks, all students and staff spend a day at the Adler Planetarium conducting experiments, attending presentations, and participating in hands-on experiences presented by the Adler and AFAHS staffs.

“This unique partnership [with the planetarium] will benefit all of our students, and our visits to the Adler are a far cry from your average school field trip,” said Captain Yashika Tippett-Eggleston, AFAHS superintendent and principal. “These experiences will augment our other science and engineering offerings and help prepare our students to achieve their full potential.”

The high school also offers Air Force Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) instruction conducted by U.S. Air Force-certified retired personnel. Student-cadets participate in daily formations and wear Air Force JROTC uniforms.

Call (773) 553-1620 for more information.