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San Diego, CA

Aerial Guardians: Engaging Students in Watershed Conservation Through Drone Technology

Grant Amount

$5,000

Year Awarded

2025-2026

Project Coordinator

Sarah Hillard

Grant Type

Individual

Local Association

San Diego County Association of Educators

Focus Area

Science Technology Engineering, and Math

About the Project

This project empowers students by integrating drone technology into environmental science education, focusing on monitoring and improving neglected areas of the Chollas Creek Watershed. Through biweekly site visits, students will assess erosion, flooding, pollution, and water and soil quality using advanced technology to collect and analyze data.
They will present their findings to elected officials, community members, and peers, advocating for environmental restoration efforts. The program fosters student agency, equity, and advocacy by providing STEM learning opportunities for historically underserved communities while building leadership and collaboration skills.

Meet the Project Coordinator

Sarah Hillard

I currently teach 6th grade 3D printing, robotics, and a 7th and 8th grade course focused on drones. I served as the SDEA site representative, middle school sports liaison, Community School Coach, and advisor to Girl Bosses, an after-school club for young entrepreneurs. I am also honored to be a DoD STEM Ambassador, supporting STEM education in underserved communities. The community where I live and teach was heavily impacted by flooding in 2021, largely due to neglected areas of our watershed—an ongoing cleanup effort that inspired my project.

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