[Doc Wu]

I think the first rule I'd make would be to set a goal of running the team in English. Not because there is anything wrong with using another language or being multi-lingual, but because you all need to be able to communicate. Communicate with mentors, with other teams, with students on the team that only speak English. Also, if the goal is to help interest the students in going on to university later, they probably will do so in the US, so being able to communicate, particularily technical terms, in English is important. This is not a rule so much, as a goal. And the kids can pick up English faster than you can learn Mandarin.

Second, you need to recruit more mentors. It sounds like you have your hands full and are a bit overwhelmed by trying to do it all. It takes a student a while to get the feel of FIRST. The same is true of mentors. It sounds like you're just begining to see the whole picture. Get some more mentors on board asap so they can get up to speed.

I'd also agree with finding a team to help you, not so much during the build season, but year-round. There must be a nearby veteran team in your area that would be willing to work together. The right relationship with another team can result in a synergy that will help both teams.

Being a 2 year program is difficult, but can be overcome. Some schools have thrived that way. Where do your students come from? Can there be a feeder program at a lower grade level that prepares students for FIRST? Maybe a FTC team?

Limited hours is a problem many schools face. You need to maximize the use of your shop time to take advantage of all of it. Schedule non-shop events, such as meetings for another place and time. Maybe you can use a library or community center.

You can never have too many sponsors. Even if your employer is paying the way now, perhaps other sponsors can help in other areas, such as work space, or CAD expertise. It never hurts to get help from many directions.

Now that your 2013 season is over, don't be afraid to get out and promote your program. You've got a robot you can use to put on demonstrations. Get the kids out there showing off their work. It's fun and it builds team spirit. You also get to talk to a lot of people about your robotics program and some of them may be potential sponsors.

That's just a few ideas off the top of my head. I'm sure you will get many more here. Good luck.