Students from M.A. Lynch Elementary School showcased their teamwork and engineering skills during a district elementary robotics competition. The team earned five of seven awards, including the top overall score. The competition challenged students to design, build, and operate robots to complete engineering tasks. “You have to build the robot and build the course with one of your partners,” said fourth grader Franni Christianson. Students earned points by using their robots to build and collect different objects, including “rooftops, house pieces, bridge, water pipe, a food processor,” explained fourth grader Gunner Peterson, who won first place in the robot driving competition.

Coaches Charlotte Diehl and Callie Hodges said the experience helps students develop collaboration and perseverance while solving problems together. “The kids did a really good job of sticking with it, encouraging each other and working together. We're really proud of them,” Diehl said.

Hodges said robotics helps students discover their strengths and build confidence. “I just love that aspect of robotics where these kids realize, ‘Oh, I'm good at this.’ It was fun to see them so successful,” she said.

Students also recognized the support from their teachers. “Thank you to my teachers. That's what I want to say,” Christianson said.