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Phoenix High students showcase history projects, drone agriculture pilot and outdoor education
Summary
Students and staff at Phoenix High School presented project-based learning highlights including California History Day entries, a UC Davis–aligned drone agriculture program preparing students for FAA remote pilot certification, and an outdoor education trip to Crater Lake.
Phoenix High School highlighted several student programs to the Western Placer Unified School District board on Sept. 16, featuring California History Day projects, a new drone agriculture program in partnership with UC Davis Extension and 4‑H, and an outdoor education trip to Crater Lake.
The History Day presentation described student research and competition tied to the annual statewide theme; two students, Adeline and Bennett, were noted as county co‑champions who advanced to the state competition at Sacramento State. A staff presenter said the program “promotes personal growth, leadership, and helps students become active, engaged members of the community.”
District and campus staff introduced a pilot drone program led by Dan Alcorn with curriculum support from UC Davis Cooperative Extension and volunteer help from community members. Volunteer Tina Patton described her role as a community education specialist aiding equipment, curriculum and community outreach. Students said the after‑school program (Tuesdays and Thursdays, approximately 3:30–4:30 p.m.) teaches drone operation and “drone math,” and the program aims to prepare older students to take the FAA Part 107 remote pilot test. A presenter described a planned 20‑week course sequence and said students will complete a community project using drones as tools.
Presenters identified a range of hardware used for instruction: the educational micro drones (an “educator packet” at about $260 per unit when bought individually), small professional units such as a Mavic (prices starting around $400 depending on payload) and larger models such as an Autel (noted around $3,500 depending on camera). Staff said indoor practice drones are used initially because micro drones are more affected by wind.
Phoenix also shared a prerecorded update from students attending the campus outdoor education trip, reporting visits to Crater Lake and Redwood National Park and student work tied to math, history and English assignments during the trip.
District staff framed the presentations as examples of project‑based learning intended to develop students’ research, communication and technical skills. The board did not take action on the campus presentations; they were reported as informational highlights.
