Planes help teach Plains science students

Physics classes are not just about math problems.

Students recently explored that idea during a hands-on science class led by Brooks Sanford. The lesson focused on class-built remote-controlled planes — each one bearing the scars of past flights.

Gathered near the school’s football field, students arrived with three well-worn RC planes in tow. With clear skies and minimal obstacles, it was the perfect setting for a trial by flight. According to Sanford, the day’s lessons went far beyond aeronautics. Students practiced hand-eye coordination, explored basic principles of flight and, most importantly, stepped outside their comfort zones.

There’s a lot of value in letting students fail and try again, Sanford said. He continued, "It builds confidence."

One plane, in particular, has seen over 24 crash landings — including one memorable incident involving a direct hit on the football goalpost. Another misadventure left the aircraft stranded on the premises of the BTI Bridge Company, whose staff returned it to the school.

Among the aspiring pilots were first-timer Tystan Larsen, Mike Reistroffer, and second-time flyer Logan Steinebach, who proudly noted, “I did better the second time.”

    High School Senior Lily Cheuvront at the controls of an RC plane with Mike Reistroffer as flight support. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
  

    Plains teacher Brooks Sanford points in the direction where the RC planes go. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)