The Northeast Ohio IMPACT Academy (NEOIA) will be awarded a $5,000 grant to expand STEM learning projects through the Ohio STEM Learning Network Classroom Grant Program.

NEOIA is among the 151 classrooms across 55 Ohio counties to win the award. The grants will create sustainable STEM learning projects to benefit students for years to come.

NEOIA CEO, Kent Polen says he's excited to bring this program to NEOIA, stating that it will give students the opportunity to earn their drone pilot license.

"Once they have their license, it will open many doors of opportunity for the students," Polen said.

NEOIA's project, Race for Impact will provide a hands-on experience and will teach problem solving skills.

In addition, students will become familiar with professional terminology and and FAA drone regulations through the completion of several race design challenges created by students to mimic drone racing. 

Courses will require students to put their knowledge into practice and demonstrate their work safely and professionally while flying drones to accomplish this goal.

In addition, the class will introduce, instruct and develop participants into responsible and educated drone pilots.

Students will various aspects of drone piloting including equipment, safety, building, piloting and racing skills, critical thinking and problem solving skills and exploring professional opportunities after graduation.