[Kristina]

Its definately time to strut yourself to your school. Like was mentioned before get parents, sponsors, mentors, reps from the community, and of course students to show the importance of FIRST. Find all the resources you can including showing them your robot, making a electronic presentation or video about the FIRST experience, etc. Being a school, they should know that it isn't all about awards but what the students gain of the process. Just today I told my friend here about FIRST and he was absolutely amazed at the leadership, management, building, and thinking skills we did as high schoolers and awed over pictures of our robot. This is what they need to hear, and those "poster child" stories like yours.

I also think it might be helpful for you to make compromises with them. If they think too much school time is being missed you could perhaps cut down on the number of regionals or alternate who goes to what competition so less days are missed. If they're worried about cost, you could try to bargain with them to let you have the program if guys fundraise more yourself.

It'll be tough but I'm sure you know that the fight will definitely worth it. As Libby mentioned, I'm sure that people would be happy to write letters to your administration on your behalf if it would have any help. Even as a political science major who wants to go to Law school I have my story of how joining FIRST has been one of the most rewarding things I've ever done in high school. Hope this helps and good luck!!!