Hauppauge Middle School Students Pilot Drones In Hands-On Lesson

HAUPPAUGE, NY — Seventh and eighth grade technology students at Hauppauge Middle School explored the fundamentals of drone technology over the course of two days, the school district announced.

They learned how drones function, their components and real-world applications across industries such as delivery, agriculture and search-and-rescue.

Students also learned about the principles of flight, stability and control, gaining an
understanding of how drones maneuver using propellers, sensors and remote controls. To apply this knowledge, students engaged in a hands-on flight experience in the auditorium, where they practiced piloting drones, adjusting for altitude and direction and observing how environmental factors impact flight.

With a solid understanding of drone mechanics and controls, they stepped up to complete a variety of team challenges, starting with their first: a smooth landing inside a hula hoop on the floor. With steady hands and focused minds, students adjusted altitude and fine-tuned their flight paths to make the perfect touchdown.

Next, the difficulty ramped up as they had to land on a small circular chair, requiring even more control and accuracy. The grand finale was the ultimate test: flying through a large hula hoop suspended from the ceiling.

As drones soared through the air, students collaborated to demonstrate their ability to navigate obstacles, maintain stability and apply everything they had learned to become skilled drone pilots.