We work hard to be sure everone who is eligible to attend can attend every event.
Students are required to attend 80% of the meetings, maintain a defined gpa, and be passing all classes at the time of the trip (teacher leaders make sure of this.). Students are also expected to get small sponsors. Anyone who is not contributing to the team during the build season is dealt with then, not before travel time.
I think it is important for everyone who was a part of the team to travel with the team. The trips are the real reward for the season and how a team comes together as a group. Rookie team members can learn so much from being at the events that it is worth a lot of extra effort to get them there. You never know which student will get the super inspiration!
Two years ago we qualified for the Championship after attending 2 regionals. The funds were very low to cover even a portion of the team traveling. We ended up asking each student to contribute a little more money (students have to pay a fee to be a part of the team) and everyone was able to go. We stayed at a cheaper hotel, rented vans, and did picnic lunches everyday. It was great to be there and have the whole team with us.
So - some ideas to get the team there -
More fundraising.
Stay at off-site hotels, especially suite hotels with 5 to a room and free breakfast.
Ask students to put in some (more) money.
