RPA Middle School Students Participate in Robotics Tournament
On Sunday, Dec. 11, two teams of RPA Middle School students attended the Oregon FIRST Lego League Qualifying Tournament at Mountain View High School in Bend. Out of 11 teams from the area, RPA was one of the only public schools in attendance as well as the only team with peer coaches, seniors Bodie Dachtler and Grey Louvar, longtime members of the high school robotics team.
The two middle school teams are made up of sixth, seventh and eighth grade students.
“The Nameless” team are students Kai Brown, Ben Ipock, Liam Garrett, Jeremiah Long, Joshua Long and Ameliana Gielow.
“The Energizers” are students Kaila Lang, Charley Meeker, Gabriel Leggett, Miles Boland and Landon Beachner.
“The Energizers” took home fourth place in the competition, only one spot away from qualifying for state championships. They also were acknowledged with the “Best Robot Design.”
“I am really proud of every member of each team for doing something that RPA Middle School has never done before, said Andrea Adams, RPA Middle School Science Instructor. “Despite the nervousness and stress leading up to the competition, both teams pulled through and did an outstanding job. The students learned a ton and I am excited to bring everything we’ve learned to the next tournament in fall 2023!
Adams said the team is hoping to grow the robotics program by continuing to develop curriculum, add additional equipment, and continue their peer coaching model where the RPA High School and Middle School programs are connected.
“Our robotics class would not have been possible without the motivation and support from Bodie and Grey,” said Adams. “Their depth of knowledge, patience, and positive attitude with the kids made the entire experience one to remember.”
