FAQs
What is a Hovercraft??
A hovercraft is a low friction vehicle that rides on a thin current of air.
What is the purpose of The Hovercraft Project?
We love to help students learn to love to learn. The Hovercraft Project is a fully integrated curriculum, coupled with inquiry-based learning. This means that students are able to put into practice ALL subjects concurrently. We also weave the idea of personal value into the entire experience. If each student understands that they are valuable, they have more confidence to contribute to their team. And if they work as a team, they have the potential to build something awesome.
Adults supervising the project may only ask questions to help them solve problems. This project also gives teachers a framework that can be immediately implemented in their classrooms through the use of project-based instruction.
Photo Credit: JC Photography
What do teachers need to bring to the project?
Nothing. Absolutely nothing…except for students of course. We bring in all materials, lead the project throughout the entire day, and remove all materials at the end of the day. We have everything we need and want this project to be as easy on teachers as possible.
Do teachers need to prepare students for the project?
In just a few small ways. To read more - go to Teacher Instructions. You will need a Release of Liability for each student. Actually, the less they know, the better.
How long is the project?
About 5 hours depending on how fast students solve problems. Treat this like an in-school field trip.
How many students can participate at one time?
128 students maximum. We have a fleet of 16 hovercrafts. Teams of 6-8 students work together to assemble, test and ride a hovercraft. Teams of 6 are ideal. There is no minimum number of participants - we will come to your school for a single classroom if the need arises. Project day is designed for 5th or 6th grade.
What standards does this project meet?
All of them. That may be a bit of a reach, but standards that this project will help you to meet in a single day will blow your mind. Students build, analyze, problem solve, experience conflict resolution, learn how to operate as a team, and apply classroom knowledge to a problem with limited tools. When observing this project for the first time, most teachers and administrators will say the same thing all over the country… “This is the way education is supposed to be!”
Photo Credit: JC Photography
What is the cost?
$4000/day for up to 128 students. This includes mileage fees.
There is a minimum number of schools in a given area that must book a project day.
Are there discounts?
We are not able to offer discounts/grants at this time - but please speak up if funding is an issue. We are happy to help you brainstorm creative ways to make it happen!
What grades does this project serve?
5th and 6th grade. 4th graders do not have the emotional stamina to complete this 5 hour project. 7th graders (and older) are too strong - and can push the hovercrafts too far/fast. So our “slice of pie” is really 5th grade and early 6th graders.
How do I get The Hovercraft Project to my school?
Fill out the contact form. We will give you the date range that we will be in your specific area and get the paperwork to you once the date is decided. There is no deposit due to book.
Do I Get to Ride?
Yup! It’s great to see teachers and administrators ride with students. Shared educational experiences stay with students for life. Yes, it will lift you. In fact, each hovercraft can lift up to 3 adults at one time. Most adults revert back to their childhood when riding these. It’s impossible to hold back a smile.
Is there a weight limit?
Each hovercraft can lift over 450 pounds when well built.
What does a timed example of the day look like?
Will the hovercrafts damage the floors?
The hovercrafts are designed with rounded edges. We also give specific instructions on how to assemble, transport, push, and ride the hovercrafts to minimize or eliminate the possibility of scratches. If students follow directions, no scratches will occur. We do not compensate schools for any damage to school property.
Can students with special needs participate?
Absolutely! There may need to be additional care taken when riding depending on physical need. Noise cancelling headphones are suggested for students with sensory disabilities, as the hovercrafts are loud.
Photo Credit: JC Photography
Does The Hovercraft Project carry insurance?
Yes, a whole lot of it. Click on the documents link for a copy.
NOT AVAILABLE IN CALIFORNIA
At this time we are not able to serve schools in CA (with the In-School Project Day) as the vehicle we drive does not have permission to operate in your state. BUT we DO have curriculum or kit options for places we can’t get to in person.
Do you have any other ways to get the hovercraft project at my school?
Yes! We have a whole page that talks about other creative ways to experience The Hovercraft Project.
Have you had any media attention?
Yes. Over the years we have been featured in several media platforms including: ABC Ch7 news in Sarasota, FL and WWNY Channel 7 News \ WNYF Fox 28 in Northern New York. We also had an article written by a talented reporter from US News and World Report.
In the fall of 2022 we had one of our Instagram posts go viral. As of Feb 2023 over 45 Million people have seen this 7 second clip just from our page. ESPN, Unilad, and several other businesses also shared it as well - so it has literally GONE MEGAVIRAL. It’s been a wild ride, to say the least.