Norman Public Schools is proud to announce the official chartering of the Oklahoma Aviation Academy Civil Air Patrol Cadet Squadron under the Oklahoma Wing of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), marking a major advancement in the district’s aviation and STEM education offerings.
The cadet program launched in January 2024 during zero hour at the Oklahoma Aviation Academy, initially operating as a flight under the Cleveland County Composite Squadron at Max Westheimer Airport. Under the leadership of Lt. Col. Michael Olvera, an OAA instructor and longtime NPS teacher, the unit grew rapidly from a handful of students to more than 20 cadets and five adult volunteers. The program applied for official squadron status in the fall of 2025 and was formally chartered in January 2026.
Now recognized as its own school-based squadron, the program will independently manage cadets and senior members while expanding aviation, aerospace, and leadership opportunities for NPS students.
The squadron is already achieving historic milestones. OAA cadets are the first CAP members in the nation to fly during public school hours, with some completing multiple flights at no cost. Cadets also operate Norman’s first-ever CAP Color Guard, are CPR certified, have trained with the Will Rogers Air National Guard medical unit, and are completing FEMA emergency response coursework.
Several volunteers have played pivotal roles in the program’s success, including Senior Chief Jeremy Ralston (U.S. Navy, retired), Technical Sergeant Bill Hill (U.S. Air Force, retired), and Flight Officer Matt Cody, an original cadet in the program.
"I am very proud of Lt. Col. Olvera, the OAA students, and additional volunteers who have worked diligently to grow the Oklahoma Aviation Academy Civil Air Cadet Squadron from just a few students to a chartered squadron under the Oklahoma Wing,” Director of the Aviation Academy Terry Adams said. “This type of endeavor requires hard work, dedication, and perseverance. The OAA CAP Color Guard has provided the colors at many community events in the past two years, and this program will continue to be a cornerstone of the OAA programming."
Associate Superintendent and Chief Operating Officer Justin Milner noted the significance of the milestone for students and the district.
“This charter affirms our commitment to creating real-world learning experiences that go far beyond the classroom,” Milner said. “The Civil Air Patrol Cadet Squadron provides students with unparalleled leadership development, technical training, and aviation exposure. It reflects our belief that when students are given authentic opportunities, they rise to the challenge and redefine what is possible.”
Additional information regarding cadet opportunities and enrollment will be shared later this semester.