School receives $2,000 grant to purchase drones

    Chase County Schools (CCS) received a $2,000 grant for drones provided through Farm Credit Services of America’s (FCSAmerica) Working Here Fund.
    CCS students will learn the basics of drone flight and operation and how drones are used in agriculture. The program will teach students the science behind drones, how they are programmed and what career opportunities may be available to students in the future with drone technology.
    “The need for experienced drone programmers and navigators is at high demand in the private and public sector,” said Joey Lefdal, superintendent of Chase County Schools.          “Having the ability to remotely check crops, irrigation systems and other out-of-site property is invaluable to the 21st century farmer,” he said.
    The drone program will introduce students to drone technology leading to more engagement opportunities from students.
    School board members at CCS were informed of the grant at their November meeting.
    Supt. Lefdal said, while it hasn’t been totally set up yet, administration is hoping to use the drones for after-school programming when that gets going.
    “At FCSAmerica, many of us grew up in agriculture and continue to farm. We know first-hand the value of agriculture education and are proud to partner with Chase County Schools to ensure future generations have the same opportunities for learning,” said Logan Thomeczek, vice president of retail operations at FCSAmerica’s Imperial office.
    Chase County Schools is one of 62 organizations to receive a Working Here Fund grant in the third quarter of 2017.
    FCSAmerica awarded $112,377 during the latest grant cycle ending Sept. 30, 2017.