FORT PIERCE, FL – An innovative partnership that has been in development for several months is literally taking off on Wednesday, May 11 at Adams Arena in Fort Pierce as middle school students compete for top honors by navigating drones through a maze. In a joint venture with the Treasure Coast Research Park, AT&T, and St. Lucie Public Schools (SLPS), 18 drones were donated to support inquiry programs at Dan McCarty Middle School, Samuel S. Gaines K – 8 Academy, and West Gate K – 8 School.
Benefits of this skill development opportunity include students’ ability to write code, program, and operate drones. According to Paul Reif, science instructional support specialist for SLPS, “This partnership provides students with an amazing opportunity to explore aeronautical technologies and the wide range of applications drones have for agriculture, engineering, tourism, and so much more.”
Superintendent E. Wayne Gent lauds the program for the opportunities it provides students to venture into career pathways leading to industry certifications and post-secondary credits. “Innovative programs such as these provide our students opportunities to collaborate and challenge their thinking to support their future readiness.”
About St. Lucie Public Schools
The mission of St. Lucie Public Schools is to ensure all students graduate from safe and caring schools equipped with the knowledge, skills and desire to succeed. For more information visit, www.stlucieschools.org or contact Kerry Padrick at kerry.padrick@stlucieschools.org.
