Eagle Valley Middle School Wins Robotics Competition in Reno, Invited to World Festival
In an inspiring display of innovation and teamwork, the robotics team from Eagle Valley Middle School in Carson City, known as the Metallic Eagles, took the top prize at northern Nevada’s FIRST LEGO League Championship Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024. With the win, the team was selected as the sole representative from the state of Nevada to receive an invitation to compete at the FIRST Lego League World Festival in Houston, Texas, April 17-20, 2024.
Team members include Hunter Budd, Nicholas Budd, Edwin Curiel Leon, Kassandra Mosqueda, Allen Riley and McKenna Weber.
Under the guidance of their dedicated coaches Kimberly Tucker, STEM teacher, and Becky Ritter, special education paraprofessional, the team demonstrated exceptional skills in robotics design, programming and strategy. Competing against dozens of other teams from across the state, Eagle Valley Middle School showcased their robot's capabilities in a series of challenges designed to test their engineering acumen, problem-solving skills and teamwork.
"The students have worked tirelessly for months, dedicating their afternoons and weekends to perfecting their robot," Tucker said. "Their commitment to excellence, creativity in problem-solving and spirit of collaboration truly set them apart. We are incredibly proud of what they have accomplished and excited to represent our state on the global stage in Houston."
The Metallic Eagles will compete against other state, national and international championship teams from around the world in the international competition. The World Robotics Festival is a gathering of the brightest young minds in the field of robotics. It provides an unparalleled opportunity for students to compete at an international level, exchange ideas with peers from different countries and learn from experts in robotics and STEM fields.
"Our students have shown that with hard work, passion and perseverance, they can compete at the highest levels and be leaders in technology and innovation,” said Lee Conley, principal at Eagle Valley Middle School. “We are thrilled to support them as they prepare for the World Festival and can't wait to see how they inspire others with their talents and dedication."
In order to achieve this dream, the Metallic Eagles and the school is looking to the community to rally behind them. They are hoping local businesses and organizations will step up to provide financial support for the team’s trip to Houston. Their goal is to collect $20,000 to ensure all students on the team may participate.
By making a donation, sponsors will not only support the growth and development of the robotics team, but they will also contribute to the broader mission of fostering creativity, teamwork and innovation among the students.
To contribute, please make checks payable to “Eagle Valley Middle School” with “Metallic Eagles Robotics Team” in the memo line. For more information or further questions, please contact the school at 775-283-2600 or [email protected].
The FIRST LEGO League is a renowned program that combines the excitement of robotics with the exploration of real-world challenges. This year's theme, "Masterpiece," encourages students to explore and connect STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) concepts to create amazing solutions.
FIRST is an acronym meaning "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology." Teams competing at the robotics competition will be challenged to take their passion for STEM and build something with purpose that would help solve problems in their communities.
Photo Cutline:
Mckenna Weber (8th grade), Nicholas Budd (8th grade), Kassandra Mosqueda (6th grade), Allen Riley (7th grade), Hunter Budd (6th grade), Edwin Curiel Leon (7th grade).