PENSACOLA, Fla. -- Enterprise Rent-A-Car founder Jack Taylor and his family have donated $10 million to a new school that uses aviation to teach students about math and science.

Taylor, a decorated Navy flyer, said the gift was inspired by the positive impact that military experience has had on his life.

The National Flight Academy is scheduled to open in 2005 as part of the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola, Fla. The school will take a hands-on approach to teaching math and science principles, while reaching beyond the traditional schoolroom experience.

"The math and science skills of American students today lag behind those of students elsewhere in the world," said Vice Admiral John H. Fetterman, president and CEO of Naval Aviation Museum Foundation Inc. "This generous gift from the Taylors will help us achieve our goal of bridging the gap between what students learn in textbooks and how it applies to real life."

The Taylor gift will fund one-third of the $30 million construction costs of the National Flight Academy.

Wind tunnels, engine test cells, and graphic displays will help students learn about aerodynamics and propulsion, while flight simulators and interactive trainers will familiarize them with navigation, communications, and the sensations of flight. Perhaps more important, said Fetterman, will be a course of instruction that also instills teamwork and values, and enhances students' motivation and individual discipline.

"I have always believed that those who are fortunate enough to achieve success should share the fruits of that success," Taylor said.

During World War II, Taylor flew F6F Hellcat fighters off the deck of the U.S.S. Enterprise, for which his company was named. Taylor was decorated with two Distinguished Flying Crosses and the Navy Air Medal.

"I have always believed that those who are fortunate enough to achieve success should share the fruits of that success," Taylor said. "I'm happy to be able to give something back to the Navy for instilling in me many of the core values that have helped me throughout my life."

Taylor's son, Andy, is now chairman and CEO of Enterprise Rent-A-Car.