For the first time, St. Mary School is offering its students FIRST LEGO League Robotics.
FIRST LEGO League teams research a real-world problem such as food safety, recycling, energy, etc., and are challenged to develop a solution. They also must design, build, and program a robot using LEGO MINDSTORMS®.
Students learn to apply science, technology, engineering, and math concepts (STEM) — plus a big dose of imagination — to solve a problem. Along their journey, they develop critical thinking and team-building skills and basic STEM applications. They also practice the Program’s Core Values, which emphasize discovery, teamwork and good sportsmanship.
Interest and participation in FIRST LEGO Robotics has been strong. St. Mary has four teams, led by parent-volunteer coaches: two teams made up of K-3 students, and one team each made up of each fourth-fifth and sixth-eighth graders. Teams will go through the process and compete in a limited number of challenges this first year.
“FIRST LEGO Robotics has generated a real buzz in the school,” said Principal Veronica Kinsey. “Both students and parents have shared in the excitement. We’ve had quite a few new parent volunteers that wanted to get involved.”
