Georgia Dome hosts WWE for smart people
Former US president, George Bush, kicked off opening ceremonies at the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Championship competition in Atlanta, Georgia with the new catch phrase, “It’s like WW(E), but for smart people.”
On Tuesday, April 15, 2008, students and mentors on Rosie Robotics, the Agawam High School’s robotics team, jumped on a plane to Georgia. By winning the Regional Chairman’s Award at the Boston Regional, Rosie earned the privilege to compete at Nationals. This three-day competition was a wonderful educational opportunity for the students.
Rosie competed with and against international teams from 49 states and 19 different countries. These countries include Brazil, Israel, Canada, Mexico, and New Zealand. This experience of getting to meet so many people from around the world is something that many students do not get a chance to do.
Special recognition was given to the team on the Einstein Field, the field used for the finals on Saturday afternoon, for Mr. Burns's exceptional dedication to robotics, the school, and the community. It was presented by Bill Miller, Director of the FIRST Robotics Competition. Mr. Burns was the founding teacher mentor of Rosie and one of the most valuable members of the team. Being presented with this award was one of the greatest honors that could have been bestowed on us.
Many of the things we took away from Championships are intangible. The lessons we learned and experiences we took away made the trip worthwhile. From experiencing their first airplane flight to meeting and talking to people they look up to, students came home with more than what they brought with them, in addition to the pounds of giveaways they collected.
The team would like to thank anyone and everyone who helped us get there. We appreciate the support we get from our community, the school district, the businesses and the individuals. We never could have gotten as far as we have without all the people, sponsors, and organizations that stand behind us.
Currently, Rosie is winding down the year with several post-season competitions. The team participates in these less-competitive events to get our money’s worth out of the robot and to train new people coming in to the club. Concurrently, we are preparing for the second annual robotics summer camp for students entering grades 7, 8, and 9, and the 7th Annual Tournament of Rosie golf scramble on June 21 at Agawam Golf Club
For more information about Rosie Robotics, or for any questions, comments, or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Dana Henry at dphenry58@comcast.net or Faculty Advisor Jack Barry at Agawam High School.
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