Eagle Valley MS first at LEGO Robotics competition

Eagle Valley Middle School’s Metallic Eagles are using plastic LEGO pieces to solve problems one piece at a time to save the world.

The school’s robotics team finished first during Northern Nevada’s FIRST (“For Inspiration and Recognition and Science and Technology”) LEGO League Championship on Jan. 27 at the University of Nevada, Reno, and it was chosen to compete at the FIRST LEGO League World Festival in Houston from April 17 to 20.

The Metallic Eagles include students Hunter Budd, Nicholas Budd, Edwin Curiel Leon, Kassandra Mosqueda, Allen Riley and McKenna Weber. They are guided by Eagle Valley coaches Kimberly Tucker, science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) teacher, and Becky Ritter, special education paraprofessional.

The team had an opportunity to demonstrate its skills during State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jhone Ebert’s visit Feb. 2.

The team displayed the Innovation Project, which asks them to find solutions to problems in the world. The Metallic Eagles all said they love to cook, so they applied and tested their LEGO building skills in the kitchen by improving grips with mixers or adapting clips for sheet racks to avoid burning one’s hands when pulling food out of an oven.

Nicholas Budd told Ebert they use LEGO Education’s SPIKE Prime’s coding software to develop their building instructions and units as they incorporate their hubs to make their applications work.

“The students have worked tirelessly for months, dedicating their afternoons and weekends to perfecting their robot,” Tucker said. “Their commitment to excellence, creativity in problem-solving and spirit of collaboration truly set them apart. We are incredibly proud of what they have accomplished and excited to represent our state on the global stage in Houston.”

The theme of this year’s FIRST LEGO League “Masterpiece” encourages students to explore and connect STEAM concepts to create solutions.

"Our students have shown that with hard work, passion and perseverance, they can compete at the highest levels and be leaders in technology and innovation,” said Lee Conley, principal at Eagle Valley Middle School. “We are thrilled to support them as they prepare for the World Festival and can't wait to see how they inspire others with their talents and dedication."

The team is raising funds for its trip to Houston. Its goal is to raise $20,000 to ensure all students can attend. Checks are payable to “Eagle Valley Middle School” with “Metallic Eagles Robotics Team” in the memo line.

For information, contact the school at 775-283-2600 or e-mail kctucker@carson.k12.nv.us.