Seven schools in Yuma County participate in “Drive in the Desert” RC races

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Middle school students from across Yuma County saw their hard work come to life as seven schools’ automotive programs faced off in the bi-annual RC car race. The event featured more than 120 students, all competing for prizes that included gift cards, goody bags provided by Chapman Chevrolet, and medals awarded to the top three finishers.

The Arizona Business and Education Coalition supplied the curriculum and funded the RC cars, but students were fully responsible for designing, maintaining, and preparing them for competition. Teachers said the event showcased the students’ growing independence and technical skills.

“Now, as a teacher, I get to stand back and just get to watch and enjoy, so they’re very independent in fixing the cars. They’re independent in running the teams,” said Elizabeth Colton, an automotive teacher at Crane Middle School.

“Shop, safety and communication, teamwork, even the RC—everything is new for them, so I’m very excited to see what they’ve learned from August to today,” added Walther Flores, an automotive teacher at Somerton Middle School.

Students will have another chance to race at the end of the school year.