Highlights of the Howard Chinese School Robotics Team

The HCCS Robotics Team consists of two FIRST Lego League (FLL) preparatory classes, three FLL competition classes, and three FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) competition classes. Over the years, they have won many awards in state and regional competitions, and have represented the team in the US Open National Competition and World Championship, fully demonstrating their strength and influence.

What is more worth mentioning is that they have received funding support from the Maryland Department of Education for six consecutive years, and this year they were invited to host the closing ceremony of the STEM Festival. This is not only an affirmation of the efforts of the HCCS robotics team, but also reflects its leadership in inspiring the younger generation to join the STEM field.

Colorful activities

The closing ceremony was held in HCC's SET Building and Duncan Hall, covering various robot demonstrations and interactive sessions. Several participating robot teams displayed their Lego Robotics works, attracting the attention of many students and parents.

In an interview with HCCS youth journalists, students from the robotics team shared their experiences in the STEM field and emphasized the importance of teamwork, inclusion, and community impact. For example, Zara from the Howard Dynamics team expressed the team's desire to inspire more students to join STEM through their efforts; James from the CRYPTIC team mentioned the goal of promoting STEM education to underrepresented groups such as women, reflecting the team's sense of social responsibility.

Climax

The closing ceremony climaxed with speeches by Dr. Li Ming, president of HCCS, and Dr. Don Thomas, a former NASA astronaut. Dr. Li thanked HCC for its support to Harvey Chinese School over the past 26 years and praised its mission to cultivate the next generation of STEM leaders.

Dr. Don Thomas then shared his struggle to become a NASA astronaut. He inspired every student present with his story: "With time, hard work, persistence and perseverance, you can achieve anything." His speech ignited the audience's passion for exploring space and STEM fields.