Highland Prep’s aerial drone team, 56433A “The Crusaders,” earned the esteemed All-Around Champion title at the recent HPS Fourth Annual Aerial Drone competition.

The win not only celebrated the skill of team members Perrin Cole, Patrick Heydenreich, Jayden Saunders and Quentin Bowens, but it also secured the team’s official spot at the upcoming regional championship.

The All-Around Champion award within the REC Foundation (RECF) Aerial Drone Competition framework is the pinnacle of recognition, honoring the team that excels in both the Judged Award and Performance Award categories.

The distinction is reserved for a team that demonstrates outstanding piloting and coding on the field, alongside high-quality written and verbal communication skills in interviews and documentation.

“The Crusaders exemplified outstanding team conduct, sportsmanship and professionalism throughout the event, proving their commitment to excellence from complex coding to precision piloting and teamwork under pressure,” school officials wrote in a news release. “This accomplishment underscores the school’s commitment to providing students with practical, hands-on experiences that prepare them for future careers in engineering, technology and aviation.”

Highland Prep is a STEM-focused college-preparatory high school at 15600 W. Hearn Road.

Contact the school office at 623-300-8385.