CTE Director Takes Flight with U.S. Navy Blue Angels Ahead of Cherry Point Air Show

It isn’t every day that a school administrator trades the boardroom for the cockpit of a fighter jet, but that is exactly what happened for one Craven County Schools leader this week.

Holly Tolston, the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Director for Craven County Schools, was selected as a prestigious Blue Angels "Key Influencer." The honor culminated in a once-in-a-lifetime flight in an F/A-18 Hornet ahead of this weekend’s highly anticipated MCAS Cherry Point Air Show.

Tolston’s day began early on the flight line, where she and WCTI 12 reporter Mary Grace Armistead participated in a mandatory morning briefing with the Blue Angels crew chief. The preparation was vital, focusing on the specific breathing and bracing techniques necessary to withstand the intense G-forces of military flight maneuvers.

With the training complete, Tolston strapped into the supersonic jet for an unforgettable 40-minute flight.

The flight showcased Eastern North Carolina from a breathless vantage point, pushing the aircraft through:

• High-speed maneuvers * Sharp, high-G turns

• The trademark precision flying that has made the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron famous worldwide.

The event drew a crowd of supporters to the flight line, including Tolston's family, friends, Craven County Schools colleagues, and local media members who gathered to witness the takeoff and landing.

Upon returning to solid ground, Tolston expressed appreciation for the opportunity and noted that she plans to bring the lessons of the cockpit back to the district. She hopes her flight will serve as a powerful metaphor for local educators and students alike.

“If you are given the chance to do something outside of your comfort zone, take advantage of it!” Tolston shared.

The extraordinary flight was made possible through close collaboration between the school district and military leadership. Craven County Schools extended special thanks to:

• MCAS Cherry Point for their hospitality.

• Colonel Timothy R. Drieslein, MCAS Cherry Point Commanding Officer, for his continued support.

• Rhonda P. Murray, Director of the Community Plans & Liaison Office, who coordinated the opportunity.

• The entire Blue Angels crew for their professionalism, knowledge, and expertise.

The MCAS Cherry Point Air Show kicks off the weekend of May 8th, featuring the Blue Angels as the headline act. Thanks to Director Tolston, Craven County Schools will be watching the skies with a renewed sense of pride.