By GARETT VALCOURT
GARETT VALCOURT | The Advertiser
Bethlehem Middle School is set to compete in the 2024 Florida State Championship for the Drones in School program after a strong performance at the regional level earlier this year.
The Florida Championship will take place April 25 at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach. The event will bring together the top 32 teams from across the state, with one middle school team and one high school team earning automatic bids to the 2024–2025 national championship in Houston, Texas, scheduled for May 21–22.
Bethlehem Middle School had three teams qualify for the state competition, with notable achievements including a Judges’ Choice award and second- and third-place finishes at the Regional Competition held in Fort Walton Beach.
In addition to their state qualifications, two Bethlehem teams also earned spots at the national competition in Houston.
The teams are coached by Bethlehem High School science teacher Kaycee Valcourt, who credited the success to the students’ dedication and support from the community. Valcourt extended her gratitude to Florida Power & Light for sponsoring the teams and providing funding for equipment, as well as to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for hosting the upcoming state championship.
“These students have worked incredibly hard, and we’re proud to represent our school and community at both the state and national levels,” Valcourt said.
The Drones in School program is a STEM-focused initiative that combines drone racing with engineering, design, teamwork, and entrepreneurship. Students gain hands-on experience building, programming, and flying drones while competing in real-world challenges.
The Bethlehem teams are currently seeking additional funding to support travel and competition expenses. Those interested in assisting are encouraged to contact Coach Kaycee Valcourt at [email protected].
