Georgetown ISD receives $462k to expand drone program

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GEORGETOWN, Texas (KXAN) — On Thursday, Georgetown ISD announced it received a $462,209 grant that will fund the expansion of the district’s drone program, which launched in 2020.

The grant was from the Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a part of the Blue Skies Ahead project, according to the district.

“It’s no secret that public school districts across the state are facing budget constraints,” said Bretton Schulz, Director for CTE Programs in the district. “This is an incredible opportunity for us to expand a growing and highly engaging program.”

Through the program, students can receive their remote pilot certification from the FAA.

“Since the start of the program, 27 students have completed significant training and earned a Part 107 license from the FAA, which enables them to enter the growing field of aviation as drone pilots. Part of the grant will help cover Part 107 exam fees, which usually cost $175 per student,” the district said.