UPDATE: That’s right, we were featured on CNN! Watch here.
Robotics teams from Parkside and Towns elementary schools, B.E.S.T. Academy, Coretta Scott King Young Women’s Leadership Academy, King and Inman middle schools and Drew Charter School competed in the Project Success FIRST LEGO League, sponsored by the 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Inc., on Dec. 11 at B.E.S.T. Academy.
Implemented in 2005, the robotics program was designed to inspire elementary and middle school students’ interest in science and technology through exciting mentor-based activities. FIRST (For Inspiration & Recognition of Science & Technology) is an international nonprofit organization that aspires to transform culture by making science, math, engineering and technology just as cool as sports.
Elementary students compete in the FIRST LEGO League. Middle and high school students vie for top honors in FIRST Tech Challenge competitions. The 100 Black Men of Atlanta manages four teams, with a goal of creating robotics mentoring and resources to more APS students.
Famous black inventor and scientist, Dr. Lonnie Johnson, an active member of 100 Black Men of Atlanta, works closely with the initiative and houses the 100’s Robotics Program at his laboratory. Dr. Johnson’s donation of time and resources provides the teams an opportunity to see scientists at work, while supplying furniture, computers, software and the services of an IT specialist and engineer.
During Saturday’s main event, students milled in and out of the gym, monitoring the action and waiting for their chance to compete. After one victory, members of the B.E.S.T. Academy team shook hands and congratulated their competitors.
Photos by Scott King, look for a video soon.