Chatham Robotics teams showcase achievements at Board of Education meeting

During the recent Board of Education meeting for the School District of the Chathams, the spotlight was on the district's innovative robotics programs, showcasing the achievements of both middle and high school teams. The meeting, held on March 17, 2025, featured presentations from the Taco Cats, a middle school robotics team, and the high school’s advanced robotics program, highlighting the educational and community impact of these initiatives.

The Taco Cats, coached by Jessica Leidis and James Hitchings, have made significant strides since their inception in 2017. The team, which recently rebranded from Cougar Nation to Taco Cat, is part of the FIRST LEGO League (FLL). They engage in building and programming robots while also conducting research projects that address community issues. This year, their project focused on the effects of plastics on sonar exploration, collaborating with local experts, including the Chatham Township mayor. The team has demonstrated impressive performance in competitions, consistently ranking in the top 25% of New Jersey teams, with notable awards for robot design and innovation.

Students from the Taco Cats shared their experiences, emphasizing teamwork, problem-solving, and the technical skills they have developed. They highlighted their commitment, having logged over 180 hours of work this season alone. Their achievements extend beyond competitions; they raised $2,160 for the Passaic River Coalition, showcasing their dedication to community service.

Following the middle school presentation, Julie Ryan, the high school robotics program leader, introduced her students, who compete in the FIRST Tech Challenge. Ryan noted the challenges faced by high school students balancing rigorous academic schedules with robotics commitments. Despite these challenges, the program has thrived, with students collaborating on robot design and fundraising efforts. The high school team has a strong track record, having advanced to state championships multiple times and even competing at the world championship level.

Students from the high school team shared their experiences, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, creativity, and resilience in overcoming obstacles during the design and competition processes. They discussed the iterative nature of robotics, where trial and error lead to improved designs and functionality.

The meeting underscored the significance of these robotics programs in fostering STEM education and community engagement. As the district continues to support these initiatives, the skills and experiences gained by students not only prepare them for future careers in STEM fields but also contribute positively to the community. The Board of Education expressed pride in the accomplishments of both teams and their commitment to nurturing young innovators.