“We need wrenches, Tetrix robotic parts and kits, game pads, electronic modules, adapters, and tires to build a robot for competition.”
– Mr. Hampton
There is nothing we’re prouder of at the Rural Tech Fund, than being able to respond to requests from teachers with an emphatic, “YES, your project is fully funded”!
Robots have quickly become a favorite tool for STEM education. And why not, they provide hands on electronics and software engineering experience, while also being a whole lot of fun! Oftentimes, this education occurs in after school Robotics Clubs and other programs. Unfortunately, a lack of funding for these programs means the technology is still out of reach for many classrooms. Such was the case in Mr. Hampton’s Georgia middle school classrooms. Jace, the Robotics Club president is clearly passionate and described both the spirit of competition and learning environment they were creating:
My goal is to be able to build a unique mobile robot that crushes the competition at our first robotic competition. It would be exciting for the entire school to see what our robotics’s team could create and accomplish, especially since this will be our first year going to the competition.
As the leader of this project, I will make sure that our team works together as one, completes their part of the robot on time, and that we have the winning robot. In addition, I will make sure that everyone has team spirit so we can build the best robot.
You can see from the pictures that the students were as serious as it gets about building a powerful robot.
Mr. Hampton also inspired us with his educational plan:
My students will utilize and enhance their STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) skills during this project. They will explore real-world issues and solve authentic problems using digital tools and resources.
During the preparation period, the team will work as real engineers – they plan, build, program, and document the team’s work. They attain solution-oriented, craft, organizational and social skills that they need before and during the tournament. Donations to my classroom would enable my students to use materials they would not have a chance to use in everyday life and see first-hand how they can grow with the technological world around them.
Thanks to donors like you, citizen donors of Think It Up and other partners such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation we were able to fully fund this, and according to Mr. Hampton just in time!
Thank you, Thank you, and Thank you! I am overwhelmed with joy that you have chosen to fund our project. We were close to giving up, but you have saved the day. Our Robotics club is growing and our students are amazing. They are going to be very excited. Again, thank you!
These middle schoolers are now well on their way to both robotics competitions and careers as engineers, software developers and creators. Hearing from the students themselves is without a doubt our favorite part.
Kamron Learning and Having Fun!
Lan Showing Their Commitment to Learning!
Joseline So Excited!
David Describing the Learning Process!
Melissa Showing the Power of Sharing and Caring!
We’re thrilled to have made an impact on the community of Jonesboro, GA and its students! Check out our blog, twitter and facebook pages for other editions of #RTFSharesThanks!
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We’re trying to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural communities by helping introduce students to technology jobs and end generational poverty. Interested in making an impact in your community? E-mail us or consider donating to our general fund or contributing to our patreon.
