Before breaking for the holidays, the young scholars and staff at Hudson Valley Pathways Academy (HVPA) at Ulster BOCES, competed in a fun and engaging “Robot Olympics” event. Six teams of students built and programmed robots that performed in various racing matches and obstacle courses, demonstrated design and “branding” skills by creating team mascots, and honed their communication skills by staffing eye-catching presentation booths and engaging with the public.

The students, who go by the team name of HVPA 7718 Dragons, prepared for the school-wide event for six weeks as a practice for a series of upcoming FIRST Robotics Competitions, beginning with a special kickoff event on January 4 at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. If they qualify they will compete in a national event in March.

HVPA Science teacher Noah Smith explained that the Robot Olympics relates to the school’s mission of mastering design, computer coding and programming, manufacturing, communication and promotion, and project-coordination skills, which will ready them for a career path in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) industry.

“This is a warm up. Like training for a marathon, we are getting ready for the challenge of this competition,” said Smith. “Basically, students learn 21st Century skills of running a small corporation. This includes building confidence, leadership skills, and the ability to work well as a team.”

Excitement for the upcoming competition was high among the students, whose team spirit was evident. Chapter 2 scholar, from the Kingston City School District Sage Kummer, who will be working on communication and building at the competitions, said, “Today, I am feeling like we are truly operating as a team.”

Dartanian Barringer, a Chapter 3 scholar, from the Rondout Valley Central School District, said he is looking forward to being one of the robot drivers at the competition. Dartanian is a mechanical engineering student who is helping to build and code the robots. “I can’t wait to see my work become a reality!” he added.

Ben Dubois, a Chapter 1 scholar, from the Highland Central School District, said he enjoyed the practice of operating the robots to perform tasks like lifting objects and maneuvering around the course. He is looking forward to the competitions, where the robots will be even more nimble.

Principal Peter Harris also expressed his enthusiasm. “All young scholars here have been engaging in the various roles of a FIRST Robotics Team,” he said. “Taking this time to focus on the Robotics Olympics has provided the context and built anticipation for the upcoming FIRST Robotics launch.”