What is the WCS Robotics Club? Washington County Schools Information Systems Department is sponsoring a Robotics initiative to demystify computer programing and robotics concepts to 4th and 5th grade students within the WCS district. Each school will receive the training and materials to conduct a Robotics Club for their students. The time, location and frequency of the meeting will be determined by each of the schools. The Lego Mindstorm kits will be used; however, this is not a club associated with First Lego League at this time. The goal is to reduce costs and require a minimal investment from the schools and families in order to reach a larger population of students.

What is the cost for participation? Currently, there is no fee involved with the Robotics Club. The equipment will be donated and made from basic materials.

Who can participate? The goal is to reach every 4th and 5th grade child regardless of financial means or academic abilities. The middle schools and high schools have other programs already in place for further advancement in the field of robotics.

What is a Lego Mindstorm kit? The Mindstorms Robotics kit contains motors and sensors used to build a customizable, programmable robot. The kits are used for educational purposes in many environments such as www.usfirst.org, www.tsaweb.org and many others. The kits are available for purchase on-line and in stores.

How can I learn more? The internet is FULL of information. Do a search on Lego Mindstorm, First Lego League, robotics, animatronics just to name a few.

How can I get involved as an adult? Contact the school principal or Lisa Okes (lokes@wcs.k12.va.us) to be connected with the program. Volunteers from WCS and the community are greatly appreciated. Guest speakers and special guests will help enrich the students’ experiences.

— Lisa Okes 2014/12/01 12:55