On December 8, 2023, students at Pioneer Academy in Wayne, New Jersey, experienced firsthand the capabilities of drone technology as the local police department conducted a demonstration. The event, part of a week-long series of STEM-related activities, highlighted the potential life-saving applications of drones in emergency situations.
The demonstration featured a remote-controlled drone, specifically the DJI Matrice 30T, which hovered at an altitude of 150 feet—the same height as the Statue of Liberty. As children watched with excitement, they observed themselves on a monitor connected to the drone. This interactive display underscored the engaging nature of the event.
A key moment came when police officers selected a student volunteer to simulate a distressed swimmer. The drone successfully delivered a life jacket to the student, who acted out the scenario of drowning in a lake. This practical demonstration aimed to educate the students on how drones can assist in search-and-rescue operations, a critical function for law enforcement agencies.
Mela Kamara, an 11th-grade student at Pioneer Academy, spearheaded the initiative. He expressed a desire for his peers to understand the diverse applications of drone technology. “I wanted to show them that there are other things you can do with drones,” said Mela, 16, from Bloomfield. His enthusiasm for the technology was evident, as he noted the potential for future careers in this growing field.
The Wayne Police Department, led by Sgt. Pawel Jadczak, presented to students divided into three age groups on the school’s soccer field. Sgt. Jadczak explained that drones not only aid in reconstructing traffic accidents but can also play a role in apprehending suspects. “You can do positive stuff with them,” he emphasized, reinforcing the message that drones have valuable community applications.
In addition to the drone demonstration, Pioneer Academy’s STEM week included a mathematics competition and a science fair. Students also had the opportunity to visit the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, and high school students welcomed a guest speaker from Columbia University Irving Medical Center to discuss medical advancements.
Mela has also founded a drone club at the school, which currently has 15 members. The club is engaged in building its own drones and plans to participate in a nationwide competition organized by the Robotics Education & Competition Foundation, a nonprofit based in Texas. Mela’s initiative reflects a growing interest in technology among students and the importance of hands-on learning experiences.
The event not only entertained the students but also reinforced the educational goals of Pioneer Academy, which is recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School. By providing students with insight into innovative technologies, the school aims to inspire the next generation of leaders and thinkers.
As technology continues to evolve, initiatives like this drone demonstration play a crucial role in educating young minds about the possibilities that lie ahead.
