The Virginia Department of Education has honored the York County School Division (YCSD) with the esteemed K-12 Innovation Grant, supporting the creation of a unique Drone Pilot Program. This initiative, in partnership with Virginia Peninsula Community College (VPCC), offers high school students the opportunity to gain a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) remote pilots license and a career studies certificate before graduation. Set to commence in the 2023-24 academic year, the Drone Pilot Program includes a specialized curriculum focusing on Unmanned Aircraft Systems and provides work-based learning experiences. Its launch is opportune as businesses like DroneUp expand in the region and the need for skilled drone operators continues to grow. This collaboration between YCSD and VPCC underlines the potential of joint efforts in readying students for thriving careers in high-demand sectors.

Virginia Department of Education Recognizes YCSD with K-12 Innovation Grant

The Virginia Department of Education has recognized the York County School Division (YCSD) as a recipient of the prestigious K-12 Innovation Grant. This funding will facilitate a partnership between YCSD and Virginia Peninsula Community College (VPCC, formerly Thomas Nelson Community College) to provide a unique dual enrollment program for high school students. The program will enable students to obtain a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) remote pilots license and a career studies certificate before graduating high school.

Program Details and Curriculum

Starting in the 2023-24 academic year, high school students enrolled in the dual enrollment program can access the newly designed Unmanned Aircraft Systems course through YCSD and the UMS 107: Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) Remote Pilot Ground School at VPCC. The innovative curriculum aims to equip students with skills and knowledge to excel in the rapidly expanding drone industry.

Work-Based Learning Opportunities and Credits

Beyond the classroom, the dual enrollment program offers work-based learning experiences, giving students a competitive edge in meeting the demands of a growing labor market. Students who complete VPCC’s UMS 107 and UMS 111 courses will receive a total of six college credits, while also earning one high school credit. Upon finishing the program, students are expected to obtain their FAA Part 107 remote pilot’s license.

Impact of the K-12 Innovation Grant

The K-12 Innovation Grant will contribute to the development of a cutting-edge curriculum, purchase of instructional materials, and acquisition of drone equipment. With this comprehensive program, YCSD and VPCC are fostering a future-ready workforce and offering students an unprecedented opportunity to gain valuable experience and qualifications in an emerging field.

Preparing Students for Successful Careers in High-Demand Sectors

This groundbreaking partnership between YCSD and VPCC exemplifies the potential of collaborative efforts in preparing students for successful careers in high-demand sectors. By investing in innovative education programs, the Virginia Department of Education continues to strengthen the region’s talent pipeline and contribute to the Commonwealth’s economic growth.

Meeting the Demands of the Growing Drone Industry

The dual enrollment program comes at a crucial time as companies like DroneUp continue to expand in the region and seek qualified candidates to fill numerous job openings. This initiative will ensure that the local talent pool is equipped with the necessary skills and certifications to meet the growing demands of the drone industry, supporting the continued growth and success of regional businesses.

Question & Answer

What is the purpose of the Drone Pilot Program initiated by YCSD and VPCC?

The purpose of the Drone Pilot Program is to provide high school students with the opportunity to obtain a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) remote pilots license and a career studies certificate before graduation, preparing them for careers in the drone industry.

What courses are included in the curriculum of the Drone Pilot Program?

The curriculum includes the Unmanned Aircraft Systems course through YCSD and the UMS 107: Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) Remote Pilot Ground School at VPCC.

What benefits do students in the dual enrollment program receive?

Students in the dual enrollment program have access to work-based learning experiences, can earn six college credits by completing UMS 107 and UMS 111 courses, and are expected to obtain their FAA Part 107 remote pilot’s license.

How will the K-12 Innovation Grant impact the Drone Pilot Program?

The K-12 Innovation Grant will contribute to the development of the curriculum, purchase of instructional materials, and acquisition of drone equipment, enhancing the program’s offerings and opportunities for students.

What is the significance of the partnership between YCSD and VPCC in preparing students for careers?

The partnership highlights the potential of joint efforts in readying students for successful careers in high-demand sectors, providing them with valuable experience and qualifications in an emerging field.