Students showcase MESA robotics, athletics teams recognized at board meeting

Students from Moriarty High School and their teachers presented robotics work and athletic coaches summarized fall seasons during the Dec. 17 board meeting.

George Smithson, identified in the meeting as a computer science teacher and adviser to the MESA robotics teams, introduced both teams and described their first competition performances and plans. Smithson said the program includes roughly 20–25 students and highlighted industry and college contacts, noting participation in VEX V5 competitions and other events. He introduced team captains and students who described their roles; student team captain Donovan Barba said the team “placed fourth” at a recent skills event in early December.

Coaches for soccer, football, cross country, volleyball and other sports highlighted season results, postseason appearances and individual awards, including multiple all‑district and academic recognitions and several college signings. Board members and administrators congratulated students and coaches and indicated continued district support for extracurricular programs.

Students said they plan to return to a future board meeting with an update after the competitive season ends in spring. The presentation was a demonstration of student engagement in STEM and athletics; no board action was required or taken on the presentations.