Avonworth Educators Earn FAA Drone Pilot Certifications

Avonworth School District is proud to announce that three educators have earned their FAA Part 107 Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Drone Pilot Certification, expanding hands-on learning opportunities for students in the district's innovative Aviation Program.

Made possible through the support of a Moonshot Grant, Avonworth's Aviation Program introduces students to aviation and aerospace beginning in middle school and continues through high school with advanced, career-focused coursework.

Students begin with Aerospace in Grade 6, where they explore the history of flight, coding, drone technology, and aerospace engineering. In Grades 7 and 8, Aviation and Flight Simulations introduces students to the physics of flight, FAA regulations, navigation, weather, and professional flight simulators. High school students build on those experiences in Drones 101, exploring drone operations, engineering, aerospace innovation, and the growing career opportunities in unmanned aircraft systems.

The addition of three FAA-certified drone pilots further enhances these experiences, providing students with instruction from educators who hold industry-recognized credentials.

Congratulations to Nicky Findon, Jessica McDonald, and Shelby Jameson earning their FAA Part 107 UAS Drone Pilot Certifications. Their dedication, combined with the support of the Moonshot Grant, continues to position Avonworth as a leader in innovative STEM and aviation education.