Date: November 2023
Amount: $4,500

The North Middle School Radio Club is a group of students, staff, and alumni that focus on educational outreach and providing real-world experiences with all things electromagnetic, with the secondary goal of helping members to acquire their Technician Class license. The group also wants to demonstrate operating on multiple modes, which includes the ability to operate HF equipment and connect with others around the world. Unfortunately, the group has been limited by their vulnerable and outdated equipment that can only operate Single Side Band (SSB) on the 20 and 40 m bands.

This grant will provide funding to upgrade their vintage radio equipment with more modern equipment with reliable hardware. As a result, group members will be able to operate on digital modes, as well as on higher bands, all of which will further their learning of amateur radio and its intricacies while utilizing modern equipment that is less costly to repair.

Update

At North Middle School in the Ozarks of Southwest Missouri, the North Middle School Radio Club has grown into a place where students are gaining hands-on experience with amateur radio. With the upgraded equipment, including a modern HF radio, automatic antenna tuner, and a permanent four-band vertical antenna, students are now able to operate on multiple bands and explore digital modes, vastly expanding their learning opportunities. The club has successfully made over 1,500 contacts, connecting with over 8 different countries, and participated in various events like Winter Field Day and POTA activations.

The club’s efforts have inspired growing curiosity in students, leading to deeper engagement with ham radio, even during poor propagation conditions. The new equipment has also allowed the club to shift its focus to more advanced activities, such as satellite work and Pi-Star hotspot building. By continuously introducing students to various aspects of ham radio, the club ensures that students are not only gaining knowledge but also having fun and developing practical skills that could contribute to their future careers and hobbies.

Learn more at http://joplinschools.org.