[cad321]

Back in 2013, Ontario faced bill 115 causing many teams to not be able to compete that year. Our team was fortunate enough that year to become considered an official course within our school allowing us to compete. We had similar issues with to many students the year before that (about 80 students total, not including mentors) and this allowed us to get an idea for who is going to actually be committed.

We made students write an essay as to why they feel they would benefit the team and also held an after school course that new members were required to attend. This course also went on their transcript meaning if they only sat around all day doing nothing, they would have a poor grade. This process made it quite clear who was ready to commit to the team and who wasn't.

After 2013 we have relaxed about the entry essay and who needs to take the after school course (dependent on what daytime courses you take/ your experience). However the after school course is really great IMO, because it shows students that this will take effort on their behalf. If they feel it's to much for them, they can stop before the actual build comes and helps keep our team at a manageable level.

All that being said, we still follow the model that anyone can join if they want to and try to ensure that we make our team as inclusive as we can.