Lake Mills Community Schools in Iowa are giving students a new reason to look up. Thanks to a grant from the Iowa STEM Scale-Up Program, the district launched Drone Designers: Exploring STEM Careers this spring, a hands-on initiative that blends technology, creativity, and flight. Albert Lea Tribune was there and gave us the info.
Building, Coding, and Flying
Led by educator Marie Menke, the program lets students design, build, and pilot drones while learning how science, technology, engineering, and math work in the real world. The class focuses on teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking, with students completing flight missions that make classroom lessons feel alive.
“This program allows students to see how STEM can be both fun and practical,” Menke said. “They’re learning coding, design, and collaboration, all while flying drones.”
Safe Indoor Flights and Big Ideas
The drones are flown indoors, which makes it easy for beginners to experiment without worrying about trees or flyaways. Some students came in with drone experience, while others got their first taste of flight through the program. The most important thing is that they can practice safely.
Preparing for the Future
The project is part of the Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council’s Scale-Up Program, which helps schools introduce innovative technology education. By flying drones, Lake Mills students are exploring potential careers in robotics, aviation, and engineering—fields that are growing fast.
“These professionals come from a broad spectrum of the state’s education, business and civic sectors and will work together to lead the way toward a strong future for our state in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. This group was created to advise our office on ways to improve STEM education and innovation, and economic development.” – Governor Reynolds
DroneXL’s Take
It’s great to see programs like this taking off in schools. Drone education builds confidence, teamwork, and real technical skills that can lead to careers in the drone industry and beyond. More classrooms should follow Lake Mills’ lead and get kids flying early.
Photo credit: Lake Mills High School
