August Martin High School

Did you ever hear of a high school that can get you a pilot’s license? Right here in South Jamaica, Queens, stands August Martin High School. It’s not your average high school. August Martin High School opened in 1971. It has a special focus on aviation. Students can actually work towards their pilot’s certification while studying here. The school isn’t solely about flying. August Martin High School also offers academies in Aerospace and Technology, Communication Arts, Law, and even Culinary Arts. Imagine learning to cook gourmet meals in one classroom and then heading off to a flight simulator in the next. The school’s history is fascinating. The building itself dates back to 1942. It originally opened as Woodrow Wilson Vocational High School. During World War II, the school trained thousands for defense-related industries. You can still see quotes from Woodrow Wilson on the building’s facade. The switch to August Martin High School in 1971 marked a significant shift. The school’s mission became focused on training African Americans for the aviation industry. August Martin, the school’s namesake, was a remarkable figure. He was a Tuskegee Airman and the first African American commercial airline pilot. Tragically, he died in 1968 during a humanitarian mission to Nigeria. His legacy lives on in this unique school. August Martin High School faced a potential closure in 2012. The community rallied together. Students, residents, and elected officials protested. They stressed the name’s importance and its connection to the community. Their efforts were successful. August Martin High School remains open, a testament to its unique mission and its inspiring namesake. It stands as a symbol of opportunity and a reminder of the pioneering spirit of August Martin.