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Students Create GPS Tracking Device For Special Needs Individuals As Part Of Assignment

COSTA MESA (CBSLA.com) — A group of Costa Mesa students using a teen with special needs as one of its inspirations developed a GPS tracking device for children, Alzheimer's sufferers and others with disabilities as part of an assignment.

The team of Costa Mesa High School seniors spent their school year forming a virtual company, called Go-tect, and are headed to New York City to take part in a prestigious national competition to be judged by Wall Street bankers.

"We are trying to present our business in the best light possible, and hopefully they would want to invest in that company, virtually," student Sophie Nguyen said.

The students were assigned to develop a business and a unique product, in order to learn marketing development, product sales, and finances.

Matthew Brown, one of the team's members, says his brother, who has Down syndrome, was an inspiration for the product they decided to develop.

"I've lost my brother before, and it's definitely one of the scariest things in the world," Brown said. "The fact that this can happen to anyone, and we developed a company that could prevent, or even provide assurance, is something that I gained a lot out of."

Principal Jake Haley says the project is instrumental for developing the students' business minds.

"I think it's project-based learning at its best," Haley said. "You're taking students who have life ideas and their really working at a team approach."

The students require $20,000 to take part in the competition and by Wednesday had raised about a quarter of that amount.

For more information on how to help the students, visit the Costa Mesa High School Foundation.

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