I would like to officially announce the launch of a
NEW VETERAN FRC Team, FRC747 Flight Crew!
Backstory:
FRC747 is comprised of a mentor team that originally served as mentors for FRC869 PowerCord which was associated with the Middlesex High School. Unfortunately, the Middlesex High School Administration enacted a policy that the mentors felt would greatly hinder their FRC team’s development. As a result, the mentors worked together to create a new team that is based in the community and has no official association with any local school system. This allows the team to continuously improve and grow in the positive projected directions that have been set forth.
The mentors informed the existing FRC869 student members and their parents of the transition and asked if they would like to migrate to the new team FRC747. It was made very clear that they were not expected to automatically move to the new team and that there would be no ill will if they declined to join. The students and their parents were allowed some time to weigh the pros and cons of the change, and we are proud to say that FRC747 had a 100% retention rate. All students and their parents believe in the new team and the new direction! Some new students have even come on board excited to be a part of it!
On a personal note, as a 14-year member of team 869, I am very sad to see it go. That team was a major part of my life, directly impacting my professional progression and helping to mold me into the person I am today. The complicated situation that the Administration put forward made it evident that separation from the school was the only possible direction that would not compromise the amazing experience our students get as a part of our robotics team. Again, the all-encompassing goal of our organization is to provide the best, most beneficial experience possible for every member of our team.
So, after a turbulent few months, we hoist a new flag, and don new colors with a shiny new logo. Yes, there are aspects that will be different for us former 869ers. But much will remain the same. We will give 100%. We will not take on any projects that we do not plan to finish in the best possible manner. We will be gracious and professional and, above all else, we will keep moving forward.
Fasten your seat belts everyone, because FRC747 Flight Crew is cleared for takeoff!