Airline pilot Noah Smith visits elementary schools for Read Across America

Campbell High alum makes stops at four Campbell County elementary schools

JACKSBORO, TN (SPECIAL TO WLAF)– Local airline pilot Noah Smith recently dedicated two full days to visiting four Campbell County elementary schools—Caryville, Jacksboro, LaFollette, and Valley View—during Read Across America Week.

Stepping away from his responsibilities flying the skies, Smith read favorite stories to excited classrooms, answered a flood of thoughtful questions from curious students, and shared glimpses of his own journey in aviation to show how reading and big dreams can open endless possibilities. Smith answered each question with enthusiasm, drawing from his own experiences in aviation to illustrate how strong reading skills, hard work, and imagination can launch anyone toward extraordinary goals.

“FOUR SCHOOLS IN TWO DAYS! It was so fun getting to spend time with the students,” Smith shared. “Our kids are incredibly bright, asking robust questions about flying, faraway places, and what it takes to chase your goals. I only hope I can inspire even one of them to believe they can fly high and reach any dream they set their mind to.”

Drawing from his own career in aviation, Smith said the visits reminded him how literacy and ambition can take young minds anywhere. The visits left Smith energized by the children’s enthusiasm for books and their eagerness to learn. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED-03/18/2026-6AM-PHOTOS SUBMITTED)