The tween years can be rough for girls dealing with peer pressure and the emotional and physical changes that come with growing up. With all these pressing issues, academics can often fall by the wayside.

"Middle school is such an important milestone in the academic lives of kids," said Dr. Shauna Tonkin, director of education at the Pacific Aviation Museum at Pearl Harbor. Numerous programs are offered to high school students, but the museum is trying to reach out to younger girls, she explained.

The museum is offering a Flight School for Girls, a three-day program that explores the scientific principles of aviation, in hopes of sparking an interest in the fields of science and technology.

Ninety girls (30 per session) in grades 6 to 8 will be accepted into the program, which runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 26 to 28, July 10 to 12 and July 24 to 26.

"We don’t want girls to feel intimidated by the technical aspects. We want to give girls the confidence and show them that there are opportunities out there and they can compete with anyone. They are capable of learning and enjoying this stuff," Tonkin said.

Participants will take a historical tour through the hangars, engage in hands-on activities with an emphasis on Pacific aviation, operate remote-controlled aircraft and learn to pilot in the museum’s flight simulation lab.

"We will provide a classroom environment that promotes a long-term interest in math and science," Tonkin said.

Staff dressed as famous female pioneers in historical dress, such as Amelia Earhart and Rosie the Riveter, will speak to the classes.

The cost is $120, which includes lunch, snacks and a T-shirt. Financial assistance is available. The program is supported by the Women’s Fund of Hawai‘i.

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Visit www.pacificaviationmuseum.org, call 441-1005 or email education@PacificAviationMuseum.org for more information, reservations or if you would like to volunteer to assist with the program.