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CIS, middle school robotics competition at CCCC

12.03.2007 • Special Events

SANFORD – Lego Mindstorm robots built by middle school-age studentsrncompete in the first-ever local robotics competition using FIRST LegornLeague challenges.

The event takes place 8rna.m.-12 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, in the CFC (Gym) Building at CentralrnCarolina Community College’s Sanford campus.

Teamsrnfrom West Lee Middle School, Provisions Academy, and the Boys &rnGirls Club of Sanford/Lee County spent the past eight weeksrnconstructing their Lego Mindstorm robots to perform specific tasks. Thernchallenges will test the robots’ abilities to perform the tasks withinrna specific time frame.

In addition, thernstudents have been researching energy usage, performing energy auditsrnon local buildings. They have been learning about alternative forms ofrnenergy and conservation and the impact various means of energyrnproduction have on the environment. They will present their findings torna panel of judges at the competition.

“Thernjudges are looking to see that the presentation has been wellrnresearched and presented in a creative and accurate manner,” said JennyrnBarrow, Communities in Schools program coordinator.  “Most importantly,rnwe want this to be a fun experience for the students.”

Therncollege’s Electronics Engineering Technology program, CIS and ProgressrnEnergy are sponsoring the event. The public is invited to come andrncheer on the students.

FIRST (ForrnInspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a NewrnHampshire-based nonprofit that works to inspire young people’s interestrnand participation in science, engineering and technology. FIRST LegornLeague is an international program for youth using robotics, researchrnand a sports-like atmosphere to increase interest in these areas. ThernDec. 8 event will use the challenges developed by FIRST, but is notrnpart of the official league competition.

For more information about the event, contact Jenny Barrow at <jennycis@sanfordnc.com> (919) 718‑5426, or Jerry Clendenen at <jclendenen@cccc.edu>, (919) 718‑733.1   

CommunitiesrnIn Schools of Lee County is a dropout prevention program whose missionrnis to champion the connection of needed community resources withrnschools and other sites to help young people successfully learn, stayrnin school and prepare for life.