Meet the Robototes!
Since 2020, COVID-19 has changed the way we plan, and execute our community events. It has changed how our volunteers work with students, and it has also altered the way kids collaborate within their own teams. We post COVID updates to keep our community informed; and we have a COVID-19 affirmation form, as well as a COVID-19 Health and Safety Policy on our website to help our staffs, students, and volunteers to keep our community safe and healthy.
FIRST Washington students didn’t let the pandemic stop their progress. The Sammamish High School FRC team (the Robototes) were supposed to host “Robot Reboot” this year, but they had to readjust when the event was cancelled. They used the opportunity to host 19 teams from all over Washington State for the Bordie Recharge as their first off-season-event. “The event was a phenomenal success. The team used this opportunity to expose rookie members on the drive team to Bordie, enabling them to engage the robotics principles – Tasbeet I., student. The team also hosted online “Aduino camps” for over 100 middle schoolers in Bellevue to help strengthen STEM skills for younger students. “A member of the University of Michigan Solar Car Team was invited to do a presentation at the camp; and he introduced the leads of all the different sub-teams – Moneeb Z., student. The Robototes didn’t let the pandemic stop them from providing STEM opportunities for other students in their community!
Robotics helped keep this team involved in their community during the Covid -19 Crisis. “I love the incredible support offered by FIRST Washington when running an event. Everyone pitches in and it’s hard to tell the volunteers that our event was full. In addition, connection with FIRST Washington community and teams, online events /meetings/pit/open houses has help to bring us together during COVID. – Laura D., student.
The Robototes embody FIRST Washington values and work to ensure that all students feel empowered to excel. “We welcome students of all races, languages, gender identities, and beliefs who find a place doing everything from media to mechanical. Mindfulness Minutes- addressing micro-aggressions, racial injustice or other small reminders to promote self-care and strong mental health”. –Tasbeet I.
When schools shut down, entertainment venues were closed, and parents were struggling to find meaningful activities for their children, FIRST Washington teams like the Robototes adapted their events to help meet students’ needs wherever they were.
Want to learn more about the Robototes? Check out their website here!