Robotics
Robotic technology is changing the world! Autonomous processes are everywhere. We need to assure all children have access to robotic technologies. There has been exceptional growth across our region in access to robotics in after school programs, and we are making strides to bring robotics into the school day. Districts and schools around the region are institutionalizing robotics by budgeting for a stipend for a teacher to coach the robotics team, much like the sports programs. Even more remarkable is the infusion of robotics into the school day. Many schools are offering robotics during the school day through STEM classes. Through our partnership with LEGO Education, districts are developing long - term plans to assure all schools will equitably make robotics available to all children. Leadership buy - in and understanding of the critical workforce need for all students to have access to programs such as these is leading to robust participation, and a clear vision for STEM across our region. We began with the FIRST LEGO League (FLL). FLL is the first competitive level of the FIRST program. Students use the EV2 robot to learn to code and prepare to compete. Students develop a research project around a problem in the theme, program their robot to complete missions, and demonstrate their ability to work as a team, a much - desired workforce skill. The STEM2 Hub provided training to coaches all around the region to build team leadership capacity. Over 150 teams, serving close to 2,000 students, were started by the STEM2 Hub and receive ongoing support and training so that capacity can be built. Dozens of competitions have taken place, and many of our teams moved on to regional and even state competitions. Then the pandemic hit, halting in - person events. But this did not stop the forward progress. Continuing to work with our partners, we have developed a new support model that works for fully virtual, hybrid, and traditional in - person settings. We have even been able to expand our reach to younger students through FLL Junior and the WeDo robot! We are pleased to report that 100% of Communities in Schools sites, Boys and Girls Clubs, and selected Girl Scout troops and YMCA programs now have robotics programs across out region.
Even with all the tremendous progress, all students do not yet have access. Our goal is for EVERY student to have a chance to program a robot. We will not rest until we meet this goal.
STEM2 HUB ANNUAL REPORT ◊ 9
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