Vex IQ Robotics Team 821C The RockHoppers
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Dear Friends,
As an advocate for innovation and education, I am excited to introduce you to the remarkable Ed White Elementary Robotics Team 821C - The Rock Hoppers.
The challenges facing the Rockhoppers seemed insurmountable when their mentor and programmer abandoned them just one day prior to the start of their very first competition. Not only did they have a robot which wasn't fully programmed but there was also nobody available to aid or support them. However instead of giving up these determined students regrouped as a unified unit, redoubled their efforts & ultimately managed to overcome seemingly impossible odds by completely recreating the code for their robot while simultaneously streamlining its engineering process resulting in double honors in the next competition-the Think Award and Skills Champions Award!
The skills Champions Award paved the way for their participation in the Texas Regional State Competition. Despite not placing in State, their hard work and dedication paid off when they received a wildcard invitation to compete in the prestigious VEX IQ World Championship in Dallas, TX, from May 1-3!
Liam, is a rising 4th grader, embarking on his first full year in robotics as a talented builder and co driver. Lilah, is an accomplished 4th grader, she takes on her first full year in robotics as the lead note booker, showcasing her skills. Charleston, a bold 2nd grader confidently steps into his role as the main driver for the first time. Fourth graders Aiden and Kailyn are the latest additions to our team. In their capacity as new members, they will offer valuable insights and leadership.
With a strong desire to excel, they strive to win over judges and audiences alike at the worldwide tournament. Their dream is not just about winning but also showcasing what Texas can achieve and overcome. They are ambassadors of our community on a global stage not only for their district, but for our state and country.
Innovation and collaboration come alive in these young champions. The camaraderie they share with teams from around the world at Worlds is truly inspiring, reminding us that forging strong bonds with both teammates and opponents alike is what it's all about.
Unleash the potential of tomorrow's leaders today by supporting our youth robotics team. Your kindness will enable them to develop invaluable life skills and make a difference in the world. By supporting us financially, you will play an integral role in enabling the team to participate in this event. Your generosity will help offset registration fees, booth setup costs, and travel expenses. Let me illustrate how your investment will significantly affect our venture:
• $1,800 - Registration fee
• $1,200 - Booth setup
• $6,000 - Travel costs for 5 team members and one teacher for 4 nights
Skills learned:
o Engineering Design Process
o Teamwork/Collaboration
o Coding: Started with block coding, now coding in Python. Robot is coded for driving, and also coded to perform autonomously/self drive. (Look, Ma! No hands!) They apply algorithms and logical reasoning when coding. Use variety of sensors and GPS.
o CAD
o Building/Engineering - construct robots and subsystems, also reverse engineering.
o Engineering Design Notebook: Documentation of every step of their process.
o Interview and Public Speaking Skills: Explain and defend their builds to panels of adult judges
o Analytical Skills: Game analysis, strategy analysis, subsystem analysis
o Strategic skills: based on abilities of alliance partners’ robots, must adjust strategies before each match
o Perseverance, dedication, sacrifice
o Improves creativity, critical thinking skills, and problem solving abilities
o Applies math (geometry, algebra, and even some calculus even if they don’t realizing they’re using calculus!) and science (physics and mechanics) in a practical manner
o Presents children with real-world challenges which fosters their ability to approach complex problems with a systematic mindset
o Creates resilient kids
Thank you for considering our request and being a part of this incredible journey.
Warm regards,
The Rock Hoppers
Corporate Sponsorship payments may be made to Stefanie Herbert via check, cash, money order or:
Venmo @Stefanie-Herbert-1
If you’d like to learn about this year’s game in which they’re competing, “Full Volume”, please see below.
Organizer
Stefanie Herbert
Organizer
Seabrook, TX