Contributed
Contributed
Contributed
FIRST Inspires, in partnership with the Adventist Robotics League, collaborated with the Adventist Christian Academy of Raleigh to host the Third Annual Carolina Regional Qualifying Championship on April 7, 2024, for the 2023-2024 FIRST® LEGO® MASTERPIECE SM for students in grades 4-8.
During the past season, 12 Adventist Robotics League teams from across the southwest region explored imaginative new ways to merge art and technology on a global scale. These teams included Oakwood Adventist Academy, Alabama; Duluth Adventist Christian School and Ramah Jr. Academy, Georgia; Tri-City Christian Academy, Adventist Christian Academy of Raleigh, Greater Fayetteville Adventist Academy, Carolina Adventist Academy, and Silver Creek Adventist School, North Carolina; Eddlemon Adventist Christian Academy, South Carolina; and Calvary Adventist School, Virginia.
Students unleashed their imagination to redefine the realms of art and inspire others with their innovative and creative fervor. The weekend’s activities primarily focused on Adventist education with an emphasis on STEAM enrichment. On Sabbath, the sermon was delivered by Carlton Byrd, president of the Southwest Regional Conference, and titled “What About The Children?”
On Sunday, more than 400 people tuned in to the live-streamed event on Facebook and YouTube, witnessing the top three teams advancing to the National Adventist Robotics Championship: Silver Creek, Tri-City RoboRevelators, and ACA Raleigh Gear Girls. Closing prayer was given by Debleaire Snell, senior pastor of Oakwood University Church and director/speaker of Breath of Life.
The Carolina Regional Adventist Robotics Tournament also announced John Deere’s $5,000 investment to support this tournament in Raleigh. This donation aligns with John Deere Foundation’s ongoing commitment to contribute $100 million to family and youth education over the next decade. “Youth require equitable access to education for their lives to leap forward,” says Pat Barnes, senior global program officer for education and equity at John Deere.
Other local sponsors, including TE Connectivity, NC A&T University, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, and Athletic SOS, collectively contributed over $5,000. The Adventist Robotics League operates under the FIRST® umbrella, preparing young people ages 4-14 for the future through enjoyable, hands-on learning experiences. Participants gain real-world problem-solving skills through a guided, global robotics program, fostering collaboration between today’s students and teachers to build a better future together.
“This exemplifies excellence in Christian plus STEAM education,” said LaFayette Trawick, tournament director.
Carolina | July 2024
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