Sam Houston Automation and Robotics Program

Student robotics teams competed in the "SHARP" Sam Houston Automation and Robotics Program's 3rd annual Robolympics Tournament. Each school had the option to enter several teams. The competition this year included EARLY Simple Machines and RCX/NXT programming competitions. Elementary & Middle schools were invited to participate in those areas of competition. Awards were presented after the tournament on November 17, 2007 at John J. Herrera ES.

The SHARP Coaches and their teams attended a practice workshop in October which helped them prepare for the main event. During this time students critiqued and gave feedback in helping to design the 3 courses for a successful tournament. This helped the coaches to build their teams to be synchronous, problem solvers, analytical thinkers, and to support each other. This was evident by the fierce strategic competition during the tournament this year.

Student teams met after school at least twice a week for the past 3 months. They learned about simple and complex machines, robot design, programming language and many other 21st century skills. There were 8 EARLY teams from 6 elementary schools (grades 3-5) and 4 RCX/NXT teams from 3 schools (grades 5-8). As a result, the Sam Houston Automation and Robotics Program impacted approximately 100 students feeder wide.

Reagan High School supported us with audio equipment, 1 emcee, and 3 judges. Herrera Elementary made it easy for our large audience to see details of the competition by projecting a live feed from the fields on a wall beside the event. The Herrera's 5th Grade Parents sold snacks and drinks to raise money for their trip to Washington D.C. Mr. Williams from Roosevelt ES took the pictures seen in the linked photo album. It truly was a team effort at all levels.

Before the ceremony, Mr. Trevino, Principal of Herrera ES welcomed approximately 200 attendees to his school. Ms. Guajardo, Executive Principal of the North Region's Sam Houston feeder pattern recognized the students' and teachers' effort and the value of robotics increasing knowledge of problem solving, critical thinking, and team work. Mrs. Bowers ended with awarding the trophies and certificates to all participants. Also in attendance were many dedicated teachers, involved parents, and engaged students.

Most notable were the smiles and pride on every roboticist's face.