Middle School: Sky Explorers The Drone
CSE-90217
Drone Explorers: Take Flight with Technology!
This introductory drone technology course introduces middle school students to the fundamentals of unmanned aerial systems, basic aerodynamics, and safe flight operations. Students learn how drones generate lift, thrust, and stability while practicing pre-flight checks and guided maneuvering. Emphasis is placed on safety, teamwork, responsible use, and real-world applications in emergency response, agriculture, media, and logistics. By course completion, students demonstrate basic flight skillsets.
What you'll learn
- Operate a drone in simulated and real-world flight contexts while adhering to safety protocols and regulatory guidelines.
- Apply foundational principles of aerodynamics and drone control to plan stable flights under varying conditions.
- Complete structured drone flight missions with accuray and efficiency based on define mission objectives and evaluation criteria.
- Collaborate with peers to plan, coordinate complex drone operations, building communication and teamwork skills used in real drone programs.
- Analyze real-world industry scenarios to identify current and emerging applications of drone technology across multiple sectors.
- Design a drone-powered solution to a real community or environmental challenge, using data, research, and strategic decision making.
Course Information
Course sessions
Section ID:
Class type:
All class meetings held in-person according to published location, dates and times. Students may be expected to engage with course content online during the published course dates.
Textbooks:
All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 6/29/2026
- 1st meeting mandatory
- Early enrollment advised
- No visitors permitted
- Pre-enrollment required
Note:
Schedule:
| Date | Day | Start | End | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7/13/2026 | Mon | 9:00 a.m. | 3:00 p.m. | Room 411, Wangenheim Middle School, 9230 Gold Coast Dr, San Diego |
| 7/14/2026 | Tue | 9:00 a.m. | 3:00 p.m. | Room 411, Wangenheim Middle School, 9230 Gold Coast Dr, San Diego |
| 7/15/2026 | Wed | 9:00 a.m. | 3:00 p.m. | Room 411, Wangenheim Middle School, 9230 Gold Coast Dr, San Diego |
| 7/16/2026 | Thu | 9:00 a.m. | 3:00 p.m. | Room 411, Wangenheim Middle School, 9230 Gold Coast Dr, San Diego |
| 7/17/2026 | Fri | 9:00 a.m. | 3:00 p.m. | Room 411, Wangenheim Middle School, 9230 Gold Coast Dr, San Diego |
Instructor:
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Jayton Harps
Jayton Harps is a technology leader, entrepreneur, and STEM advocate dedicated to inspiring the next generation of innovators. A proud graduate of San Diego State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, he also holds master’s degrees in Management Information Systems from National University and Entrepreneurship and Innovation from University of Southern California.
As CEO of Zero To Necessary, CFO of Black Tech Link, and Co-Founder of Black Entrepreneurs Leaders & Learners, Jayton develops programs that introduce students to robotics, coding, drones, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship. His mission is to help young people build the skills, confidence, and creativity needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.
With more than a decade of engineering experience at Northrop Grummanâ , Jayton has led software integration efforts, developed automation solutions, and supported complex technology systems. He brings real-world industry experience into the classroom, helping students connect STEM concepts to exciting careers and future opportunities.
Jayton has been recognized as a Rising Aztec by San Diego State University, a Rising Star by the National Society of Black Engineers Professionals organization, and Member of the Year by NSBE Region VI Professionals. Through his work, he remains committed to empowering students to dream big, solve problems, and become the innovators and leaders of tomorrow.
