On December 8, 2023, students at Pioneer Academy in Wayne, New Jersey, witnessed an engaging demonstration of drone technology by local police officers. The event, which captivated hundreds of students, showcased the practical applications of drones in law enforcement, particularly in life-saving scenarios.
A police officer piloted an 8-pound drone, hovering at an altitude of 150 feet—the same height as the Statue of Liberty. Students watched in amazement as they caught glimpses of themselves on a monitor connected to the drone. The demonstration combined entertainment with education, highlighting how such technology can make a significant difference in emergency situations.
Drone Skills and Real-World Applications
Before the drone took to the skies, officers selected a student volunteer to simulate a distressed swimmer. The drone, a DJI Matrice 30T, successfully delivered a life jacket to the student, illustrating how drones can assist in search-and-rescue operations. Sgt. Pawel Jadczak led the demonstration, explaining to students that drones are valuable tools for reconstructing traffic accidents and aiding police in capturing suspects.
“You can do positive stuff with them,” said Mela Kamara, the student who initiated the drone demonstration.
Mela, an 11th-grade student, expressed his desire for his peers to better understand the potential of drone technology. “I wanted to show them that there are other things you can do with drones,” he stated. Following the demonstration, Mela emphasized the career possibilities that exist in the field of drone technology.
STEM Activities and Community Engagement
The drone demonstration was part of a broader week of STEM-related activities at Pioneer Academy, which is recognized as a National Blue Ribbon school. The institution, located on Totowa Road, serves 448 students from pre-K through 12th grade. During the week, students also participated in a mathematics competition, a science fair, and a visit to the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City. High school students welcomed a guest speaker from Columbia University Irving Medical Center to discuss scientific advancements.
Mela also founded a drone club at the school, which currently has 15 members. The club is focused on building its own drones and plans to enter a nationwide contest organized by the Robotics Education & Competition Foundation, a nonprofit based in Texas.
The demonstration served not only as a source of entertainment but also as an educational experience, enabling students to appreciate the multifaceted uses of drone technology in society. Through events like these, Pioneer Academy continues to foster a culture of innovation and community engagement, preparing students for future challenges.
