Automotive Culture & Engineering (ACE) Program
The ACE Program at The Chandler School is a hands-on, multi-sensory learning experience designed specifically for middle school students with lanugage based learning differences, such as dyslexia. Rooted in problem-solving, teamwork, and real-world application, ACE immerses students in the fundamentals of automotive engineering, racing technology, and mechanical science. With guidance from motorsports professionals such as John Finger, Billy Glavin III- General Manager of the 2024 LMP3 champtionship-winning team- and championship-winning NASCAR crew chief Doug Richert, students engage in simulator-based training, trackside experiences, and hands-on mechanical work.
What sets ACE apart is that middle school students don’t just observe—they take an active role. Traveling to world-class racing venues such as Circuit of The Americas (COTA), Barber Motorsports Park, Spring Mountain Motorsports Park, Road Atlanta, and Virginia International Raceway (VIR), they gain firsthand experience in high-performance environments. These young students serve as pit crew, applying their skills in real-time race conditions, learning the precision, teamwork, and adaptability required in motorsports.
This groundbreaking program proves that middle school students are capable of mastering high-level STEM concepts, transforming their passion into real-world skills and opening doors to future careers in engineering, motorsports, and beyond.
ACE in Action: Our Latest Race Experience
Spring Mountain Motorsports Park
Pahrump, Nevada
At Spring Mountain Motorsports Park, ACE students experienced the full spectrum of race-day challenges, from pit work to unexpected mechanical setbacks. Serving as pit crew, they assisted with tire changes, fueling, and real-time troubleshooting, gaining firsthand exposure to the problem-solving and adaptability required in motorsports. Dana took the wheel, putting in strong laps, but mechanical issues arose, providing a valuable learning moment- demonstrating that in racing, as in life, things don’t always go as planned.
Our students travel across the country to different tracks, but Spring Moutain will forever stand out for its exceptional hospitality. Courtney and Mikey went above and beyond to welcome our students, offering private tours and exclusive access to Nighthawk Tower, where they had an unparalleled view of the race. Jason at the tower was incredibly engaging; interacting with the students and discussing the meaning behind different racing flags helped the students understand the importance of clear communication and split-second decision-making in motorsports.
Beyond the track action, students had the incredible opportunity to meet Michelle Abbate, a talented female driver sponsored by Ghost. They also connected with Lyndell Kirkes of LK Method, one of our program sponsors, reinforcing the real-world connections that make ACE such a transformative experience. Through teamwork, resilience, and direct engagement with industry professionals, students saw firsthand that middle schoolers can thrive in a world typically reserved for older students.
