PSD Performance Drone Team | Drones@psd401.net | www.psd401.net/drone-shows

Welcome to this month’s update from the Peninsula School District Performance Drone Team! Our student pilots continue to push the boundaries of creativity, engineering, and teamwork as they design, program, and perform with precision drones. From honing flight maneuvers to collaborating on synchronized routines, the team exemplifies innovation in action.

This month, we’re highlighting recent achievements, upcoming events, and ways our students are learning leadership and STEM skills that extend far beyond the flight field.

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An essay by Matthew Cooper (Drone Intern)

My trip to St. Vrain Valley Schools (SVVS) Innovation Center in Colorado was not only exciting but also incredibly educational. I had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a professional setting, and I learned several important lessons that I will take with me into the future. From technical skills to personal growth, the experience taught me far more than I expected.

One of the most important things I learned was how to set up a basic drone system, including managing 30-100 drones. I was introduced to the essential mechanics and procedures required to ensure that a drone show runs smoothly and efficiently. This experience gave me a deeper appreciation for the behind-the-scenes work that goes into something that may seem simple to the audience.

Another key lesson I learned was the importance of teamwork. I quickly realized that setting up a drone show is not a one-person job. It requires the collaboration of many people, each with their own role and responsibilities. Without effective teamwork, the show would not come together correctly. This experience taught me that relying on others and working together is not only necessary but also the key to success in large projects.

In addition to the technical and collaborative aspects, I also got to know more about the people around me — my teammates and new friends. I learned about their personalities, their strengths, and how each person contributed in a unique way. It reminded me how valuable it is to be surrounded by supportive and driven individuals. These connections made the experience even more meaningful.

Finally, I learned that help is always available when you need it. Throughout the trip, whenever I had a question or faced a challenge, there was always an SVVS Drone Intern or program leader willing to step in and guide me. Knowing that I had a support system made me feel more confident and motivated to learn as much as I could.

In conclusion, the Colorado trip was an incredible learning experience. I walked away with new technical skills, a better understanding of teamwork, stronger relationships with my peers, and the confidence that comes from knowing you have support when you need it. I’m grateful for everything I learned and for the people who helped me along the way.

Program Launched into History on September 18, 2025

This fall, the Peninsula School District (PSD) Performance Drone Team reached a historic milestone with our first public Drone Show, held at the Gig Harbor High School fields. The event drew a well-attended crowd of families, staff, and community members, all eager to witness the creativity and skill of our student pilots and animators. For months, students dedicated themselves to designing, programming, and refining synchronized drone routines, transforming ideas into an unforgettable aerial performance. The show highlighted not only the precision and technical skill of the drones but also the teamwork, problem-solving, and STEM skills that make our program so unique.

Preparation for the show was an exercise in collaboration and perseverance. Students worked in teams to plan flight paths, choreograph movements, and integrate lighting and timing. They even incorporated our newly designed PSD logo animation, giving the performance a professional and polished feel. The event was piloted by Jonna Waage, our Drone Team facilitator who guided students through planning and execution with expertise and encouragement. Joined by student pilot in training Chase Nichols brought skill and growing confidence to the flight, making the debut performance a memorable success. The team turned obstacles into opportunities to learn, grow, and showcase their creativity.

The drones themselves were a visual spectacle, performing synchronized routines that amazed the audience and brought the students’ months of hard work to life. Each flight highlighted the creativity, precision, and collaboration of the team, leaving the crowd cheering and inspired.

The show was made even more special thanks to our amazing community partner, Reyne Media, who volunteered DJ services that energized the crowd and complemented the drone performance. We also extend our gratitude to Firefly Drone Systems, whose drones, support and expertise have been invaluable to the program, and to St. Vrain Valley Schools, our mentor district, whose guidance has helped shape our growing drone team. Signature routines drew applause and amazement, while student interns beamed with pride as their months of practice culminated in an amazing first show.

Beyond the performance, the inaugural Drone Show was a celebration of learning and growth. Students gained confidence, teamwork skills, and a deeper understanding of technology’s creative possibilities. Challenges faced during preparation, whether technical glitches or complex mapping, became lessons in resilience and problem-solving, all while preparing them for future competitions and performances.

As we celebrate this successful debut, we recognize not just the impressive aerial routines but the dedication, curiosity, and collaboration that brought the show to life. The PSD Performance Drone Team has taken flight in more ways than one, inspiring our community and setting the stage for many exciting milestones ahead.

Watch our first flight below:

While we don’t have any shows on the calendar right now, the Performance Drone Team is ready to take flight at your event! We’re seeking opportunities to perform and welcome inquiries from organizations, community events, and potential sponsors. All shows are weather dependent, and we work closely with hosts to ensure every performance is safe, precise, and unforgettable. If you’d like to bring the excitement of a drone show to your audience, let’s make it happen!

We will post to our Community Group when the next show is officially scheduled.