[Robocat1]

As "head coach" and a teacher, I regularly send emails to all faculty with team members names and ask them to let me know if any student has attendance or grade "issues." I get several responses every time. This is taken into consideration when determining who travels and who doesn't. But, we've also taken into consideration the student, the class, and the effort being put forth. Sometimes a student is just "in over his/her head" in a class that's too difficult for their ability and as long as they are putting forth an effort they MAY still be able to travel. Some miss a regional or two (or nationals).

This year we started "study table" in the hotel, but not until Nationals and not until several members were behind in getting makeup work done. We ask soooo much of our school and faculty and staff that we were not about to tolerate students being behind in work because of FIRST. We need all the positive image PR we can get!

I thought the team would really "rebel" about the study tables, but it was amazing to see them all working on something and even helping each other out (teaching is the best way to master a concept). While not everyone "needed" the study time, everyone used it in some way and I think it was a good team bonding experience.

Next season we'll incorporate "study table time" into the build season at school. I'm thinking an hour of study table 2-3 days a week and then work sessions (some of our mentors can't be there when school gets out anyway).

I hope next year that no one on our school staff has the need to respond to my emails!