Students Take Flight with Stadium Drone Project
Students Take Flight with Stadium Drone Project
As construction continues on Norwin High School’ s new stadium, members of the Norwin Engineering & Technology Club are getting a bird’ s- eye view of the progress. Through an innovative student-led drone monitoring program, students are capturing aerial photos and videos of the stadium progress while gaining valuable realworld experience in one of today’ s fastest-growing technology fields.
What began as a simple idea to document construction progress has evolved into a hands-on STEM opportunity that places Norwin students at the center of the project. Every other week, student flight teams prepared for missions by planning flight paths, reviewing FAA safety procedures, and assisting with drone operations to collect highresolution footage for the district and community.
The project gives students a rare opportunity to apply classroom concepts in an authentic setting. Students are learning about aviation technology, engineering principles, mapping, digital media production, and data collection while also developing communication, teamwork, and problemsolving skills. As drone technology becomes increasingly important in industries such as construction, agriculture, public safety, and filmmaking, the experience is helping students explore potential career pathways in emerging technology fields.
Owen, a rising senior, has taken on a leadership role within the program by training as a Visual Observer( VO) for the Remote Pilot in Command( RPIC). In this role, he is responsible for maintaining constant visual contact with the drone and communicating important information about its location and surroundings to the pilot during flights. The position requires focus, attention to detail, and a strong understanding of drone safety procedures.
The program is made possible through a partnership with Trispheric, a professional drone services company that provides training, equipment, and a licensed remote pilot to work alongside students. Technology Education instructor, Mr. Robert Shuber, collaborates closely with Trispheric and members of the Engineering & Technology Club to guide the program and help students build technical skills through hands-on learning experiences.
As part of the initiative, all participating students will earn TRUST certification, a national recreational drone safety credential that introduces students to FAA regulations for unmanned aircraft operation.
By combining cutting-edge technology with real-world application, the project is giving Norwin students the chance to do far more than observe construction— they are actively helping document a major moment in school history while preparing for the future of STEM careers. orwin
NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
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Educator Innovation Grants
The Norwin School District Community Foundation Awards Over $ 7,000 in Grants to Support Innovative Learning Opportunities
Last month, the Norwin School District Community Foundation announced over $ 7,000 in Educator Innovation Grant awards for five educational projects that will benefit over 1,000 students in the 2026-2027 school year.
Now in its 16th year, the Foundation’ s competitive Educator Innovation Grant program encourages Norwin teachers to develop creative classroom projects that might not otherwise be possible through the regular school budget. These grants provide essential start-up funds to help educators deliver innovative instruction that enriches and enhances student learning. An independent review team carefully scores the applications each year. This year, teachers could apply for up to $ 2,000 in funding, and eight applications were submitted.
The District congratulates the following 2026 recipients:
• Angel Bellante, Sheridan Terrace In addition to Kim Tarris, Melissa Houston, Patti Hart, & Darci Stokes“ It’ s a Secret! Stories That Make Reading Stick!”
• Rachel Grissom, Sheridan Terrace In addition to Miranda Slivka & Janelle McNally“ Growing Year-Round: Expanding the Sheridan Terrace Blooms and Grows Garden with a Greenhouse”
• Lindsey Meyer, Stewartsville In addition to Alexis Janiga“ Deal Me In- A School-Wide Math Initiative Using Decks of Cards”
• Becky Rutkowski, Middle School In addition to Brittany Boehm & Michele Brooks“ Kindling Curiosity: Bringing Historical Fiction to Life Through Digital Reading”
• Laura Swick, High School“ Certify to Succeed: Industry Recognized Credentials for Design & Engineering”
The selected grant recipients will also be recognized during Norwin’ s Opening Day event in August.
Funding for the Educator Innovation Grant program comes from the Foundation’ s Annual Days of Giving campaign. This campaign offers our community an opportunity to give back through tax-deductible donations that support school programs and scholarships for Norwin students. While donations are welcome year-round, the Days of Giving campaign traditionally takes place during Homecoming week.
Over the past decade, the Foundation has steadily expanded its support for innovative educational initiatives and looks forward to continuing this important work. The Norwin School District Community Foundation and the Norwin School District are deeply grateful to everyone who contributes to the Annual Days of Giving and the Educator Innovation Grant program. Together, we are building a legacy of learning that will benefit Norwin students for generations to come.
Norwin Athletic Hall of Fame
Norwin’ s long-standing tradition of excellence is built on generations of students who have succeeded both in competition and beyond. The Norwin Athletic Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding athletes, coaches, administrators, and community members whose contributions have elevated and celebrated Norwin athletics. This ongoing tradition preserves the strong legacy that continues to define our programs.
Nominations are currently open for the Hall of Fame Class of 2026. If you know an individual or team deserving of this recognition, please submit a nomination by scanning the QR code below.
The Class of 2026 will be recognized at the Hall of Fame Banquet on Thursday, October 8.