Policy 1055: Drones – Unmanned Aircraft Systems

It is the policy of the Aberdeen School District to maintain a safe learning environment.  The District has determined that unapproved use of drones poses a safety hazard.  The use or possession of unmanned aircraft or aerial systems (UAS), also known as drones, is prohibited for any purpose by any person or entity at any District-sponsored event, game, match, tournament, or anywhere in, on or directly above or upon property or premises owned, maintained or used by the District for any purpose, unless otherwise preempted by applicable state or federal law.  The District reserves the right to remove or refuse admission to any individual who violates this policy.  The District further reserves the right to exclude any individual who violates this policy from future District events.  Violators may also be reported to appropriate authorities, including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).  Students or employees violating this policy shall be subject to formal disciplinary action pursuant to District policies.

DEFINITIONS

As used in this policy, the following definitions apply:

“Unmanned aircraft system (UAS)” means an unmanned aircraft vehicle, drone, remotely piloted vehicle, remotely piloted aircraft or remotely operated aircraft that is a powered aerial vehicle that does not carry a human operator, can fly autonomously or remotely and can be expendable or recoverable.

Unmanned aircraft system does not include:

  1. Model flying airplanes or rockets including, but not necessarily limited to, those that are radio controlled or otherwise remotely controlled and that are used purely for sport or recreational purposes;
  2. An unmanned aircraft system used in mapping or resource management; and
  3. Unmanned aircraft used by school personnel with prior administrative approval for classroom instruction, grounds, facilities and maintenance, and campus security.

PROCEDURES FOR USE OF DRONES

An exception to the general rule prohibiting the use of drones may be granted in writing by the Superintendent or designee, in his/her sole discretion.  Drone operators shall abide by the following procedures:

All drone operators shall be responsible for complying with Idaho law and all FAA safety guidelines and regulations, which include, but are not limited to:

  • The aircraft must fly below 400 feet and remain clear of surrounding obstacles.
  • The operator of the UAS must maintain visual line of sight with aircraft at all times.
  • The operator must ensure the UAS remains clear of and does not interfere with manned aircraft operations.
  • Operation of UAS in prohibited or restricted areas (e.g. airspace or within the area of operation of airports) is prohibited unless the operator has permission to operate.
  • Operation of UAS over persons is prohibited unless such person is directly participating in the operation of the aircraft or is located under a covered structure or inside a stationary vehicle that can provide reasonable protection from a falling aircraft.
  • UAS  weighing more than 55 lbs. (including everything that is on board or otherwise attached to the aircraft) is prohibited.
  • No person may operate UAS in a careless or reckless manner so as to endanger the life or property of another.
  • No person may allow an object to be dropped from UAS in a manner that creates an undue hazard to persons or property.
  • Operation of UAS at night on district property is prohibited.
  • Use of UAS to conduct surveillance of, or to audio or visually record, people or property is prohibited, unless consent to do so has first been obtained.

Classroom

The District understands that drones may have some educational value in the classroom setting.  A teacher wishing to use/demonstrate drone technology in a classroom-related setting must adhere to the following requirements:

  1. A clear and articulable connection between drone technology and the course curriculum must exist;
  2. Only the teacher, or appropriately trained and licensed designee, shall be permitted to use/demonstrate drone technology on school grounds;
  3. No student-owned drones are permitted;
  4. Drones must be equipped with blade guards;
  5. Eye protection is required for the drone operator and audience;
  6. All drones must be checked in at the main office and remain in a locked location when not in use;
  7. Drones shall not be operated indoors.

Private/Commercial

Private or commercial individuals/entities shall be required to adhere to the following procedures and requirements:

  1. Requests must be made at least 48 hours in advance;
  2. Sign a contract and release of liability with the District;
  3. Provide proof of Certificate of Authorization (COA)—or the necessary exemption—as issued by the FAA, when required;
  4. Provide proof of Certificate of Liability Insurance for a minimum of $1,000,000 that names the Aberdeen School District as an additional insure;
  5. All photos/videos taken will become the property of the District;
  6. All operators shall be required to comply with all applicable local, state, and federal laws.

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LEGAL REFERENCE:

Idaho Code Sections

33-506(1) – Organization of Board of Trustees

21-213 – Restrictions on Use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems

14 CFR Part 107

ADOPTED:   July 20, 2022

AMENDED: 

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