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Re: FIRST in Texas Partners with UIL (University Interscholastic League)
This conversation has been going on for a while here in Texas.
University Interscholastic League was the first organization of its kind. It started as an organization to govern the Debate league in Texas. It is the governing body for school activities including athletic, academic and music contest for primarily public schools in the state of Texas. It is a membership association of schools. A few private schools have joined the ranks in primarily athletic contests.
Last October, UIL held the executive council meeting and there were 9-10 different speakers who addressed the council including BEST, VEX, FIRST, Texas Computer Educators Association and several mentors from teams. Many spoke on the impact their program had on students as well as schools. I believe they were very shocked to have that many speakers there for Robotics/STEM.
UIL declares a champion in all high school sanctioned activities in the state. In fact, sports have multiple champions due to school size classifications.
They have made it very clear that non UIL schools will not be eligible to compete for the UIL state championship. Many of the concerns raised from several people was the fact that districts are coming and will we declare a champion in addition to the district champions. I do not believe that UIL will be more open in the future in this area due to their current policies.
UIL will not effect FIRST competitions and qualifications for Champs.
UIL sanctioning of robotics is a good thing I believe. As Jess says, it legitimizes extra curricular activities in the state. Schools that do not have robotics at this point will and have received official notification and information from UIL. This does provides validity in support from a state agency. At this point, it does not mean more finances but it may provide more evidence and pressure of government and legislatures. Obviously Michigan is proof of a state getting on board with financing from the state.
It will be interesting to see if the event stays in conjunction with TRR in the future.
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FRC 2468 Team Lead 2008 - Present
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