Cleveland City Schools is proud to announce that Cleveland High School aviation instructor Jeffrey Garrett has been selected as a member of the national Able Flight Class of 2026. His selection recognizes a powerful story of perseverance, service, and deep commitment to students.
Able Flight is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that changes lives through aviation by providing advanced flight training and professional development opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The program removes barriers, builds confidence, and opens doors to careers in aviation while inspiring young people across the country to believe that their circumstances do not define their future.
For Mr. Garrett, this honor is deeply connected to the work he does every day with students.
More than twenty years ago, he earned his private pilot certificate and was later appointed to attend the United States Air Force Academy on a full scholarship, where he planned to pursue a career in aviation. During his time at the Academy, he experienced a devastating rock climbing accident that resulted in multiple serious injuries, a six week coma, and years of rehabilitation. His path toward becoming a military pilot came to an abrupt end.
Rather than allowing that setback to define his life, Mr. Garrett chose a path of service and purpose. He returned to Tennessee, earned degrees in mathematics and teaching, and devoted his career to education. After years in the classroom and later as an assistant principal, he joined Cleveland High School in 2023 as the aviation instructor.
Since arriving at Cleveland High School, Mr. Garrett has worked tirelessly to expand opportunities for students. He has secured grants that allow students to experience introductory flights, participate in aviation enrichment activities, and explore career pathways many had never considered possible. His classroom is built on encouragement, belief, and the constant reminder that resilience matters.
Through the Able Flight Scholarship, Mr. Garrett will become the first participant in program history selected specifically to train as a Sport Pilot Instructor. This certification will allow him to extend his impact beyond the classroom and strengthen aviation opportunities for Cleveland High School students for years to come.
“Jeffrey Garrett’s impact goes far beyond aviation,” said Cleveland High School Principal Bob Pritchard. “He builds confidence in students who are still discovering their potential. His story is powerful, his heart for students is genuine, and our school and community are better because of him.”
Garrett will begin his training later this year as part of the Able Flight Class of 2026.
For Cleveland City Schools, this recognition reflects the heart of our mission. It reflects the power of educators who believe in students, the importance of opportunity, and the truth that one person’s perseverance can change the trajectory of many lives.