NEWS

On May 28, 2024, Plainsburg Elementary buzzed with excitement as UC Merced engineering students introduced local 6th - 8th grade students to the world of drones through a program called FLY CITRIS. With a visit from the UC Merced Mobile Maker Lab, or "Mobi", students experienced new drone technology and unique engineering concepts. Each student was provided the opportunity to fly drones through obstacle courses, enhancing their piloting skills and understanding of aerodynamics. These practical sessions were complemented by conversations on ag-tech applications, where students discovered how drones are revolutionizing agriculture by monitoring crop health, optimizing irrigation, and managing pests. By merging fun, hands-on drone activities with real-world agricultural technology insights, FLY CITRIS not only captivated the students' imaginations but also showcased the transformative potential of drones in modern agricultural practices. Kristi Kingston, the Plainsburg School Superintendent, noted how engaged and entertained the students were with the drones. “This experience was one that some students would have never been able to have without this group. Thank you for partnering with our small, rural school and giving our 6th, 7th, and 8th graders an awesome experience to end the year with."

Students at Plainsburg have spent the past 6 weeks learning about robotics through UC Merced CITRIS’ NexTech Robotics program and were eager to learn more skills. "For some kids, 'Robotics was the best two days of the week!'" said Plainsburg Elementary School teacher Jennifer Tanachion. CITRIS Education Intern Santiago Ramirez Manzo observed, "working at Plainsburg as a NexTech educator I was able to witness the students’ attitudes towards robotics and engineering concepts grow from reluctant to enthusiastic. The willingness of the students as a whole to participate and engage with NexTech curriculum allowed them to excel in the engineering challenges we presented them with. Overall, my semester spent as a NexTech educator at Plainsburg was an equally exciting, challenging, and rewarding experience."

Through FLY CITRIS and its robotics counterpart, NexTech Robotics, UC Merced is not only educating young minds but also fostering a community of learners who are excited about the possibilities of science and ag-tech. By making STEM education accessible and engaging, these programs are helping to shape the future of innovation, one student at a time.