At Fort Worth Public Library branches, a dynamic partnership is reshaping how kids engage with STEM.
High school students from the Young Women’s Leadership Academy (YWLA) are sharing their expertise in robotics with fourth through eighth graders through an innovative program called Bot Builders.
This mentorship initiative, developed by the all-female competitive robotics team known as The Dork Side, offers young learners a free chance to code and construct robots, reported CBS News. The project began when Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker visited The Dork Side and connected them to the public library system, creating a bridge between passionate high school mentors and curious younger students.
The Bot Builders program is designed to inspire a love for robotics and coding at an early age. During a recent session observed by CBS News Texas, participants tackled the challenge of programming a robot to operate a windmill mechanism that releases canisters. Wyatt Landry, a young participant tasked with building the robot, described the experience as creating something that feels almost alive. The excitement in the room was palpable, with mentors and parents alike marveling at the creativity and problem-solving on display.
Parents of the young learners were thrilled to witness their children delve into coding and robotics.
Jennie Wright, whose son Wyatt is an avid participant, expressed her enthusiasm for the program’s impact on her child’s future. Similarly, Ashli McMillian, mother of another participant, Jace, highlighted her son’s growing interest in coding and its potential to shape his career path. For these parents, the program represents an opportunity their children never had in school and a chance to nurture a passion for STEM fields.
High school mentors like Ila Avila take pride in bringing STEM education to younger students, especially in elementary schools where such opportunities are often limited. Ila emphasized the importance of nurturing interest in technology early on, noting how exposure to these concepts can empower students as they age. The mentors not only teach robotics but also inspire confidence and curiosity in their mentees, fostering a love for innovation and exploration.
Precision and problem-solving are key components of Bot Builders.
Junior Annika Gronberg, who focuses on ensuring the robots’ measurements are accurate, spoke of her admiration for the younger students’ ingenuity. Watching their minds work through challenges and discover creative solutions is a rewarding experience for Gronberg and her fellow mentors. The exchange of ideas between mentors and mentees often leads to unexpected insights, enriching the experience for everyone involved.
The hands-on nature of the program keeps the young learners engaged, even when they encounter difficulties. During one session, the boys collaboratively adjusted their robot design to achieve success. Their determination paid off as the robot flawlessly activated the windmill and released all the canisters. Moments like these demonstrate the program’s effectiveness in teaching resilience, teamwork, and practical problem-solving.
These programs set the stage for a brighter future by bridging the gap between generations and fostering a shared passion for STEM.