QotW 08-31-03: Making the cut.

[sanddrag]

You have to maintain a 2.0 GPS to even be at my school so it's not much of an issue with my team. One thing that did really "urk" me though is we had to go around getting a grade sheet filled out and signed by all our teachers. This was in order to go on the trip. My grades are my business and other teachers and the robotics teacher has no business looking at them even if they are good . I didn't like that at all.

As for robotics being a class, it is at my school and the reason for that is we get some money that way to pay for materials and things but we were a better team when nothing appeared on report cards and transcripts.

VERY IMPORTANT
If robotics at your school is becoming a class and is not receiving money or any other substancial benefits, do not let it happen. Many of our students really disliked the assignments and grading policy and attendance and the such. Unfair grading tactics were used. The "class factor" turned many students away. Robotics is for fun and your own learning experience, not a grade for someone else to look at. It is obvious to you, your team members' and your teacher/coach how much devotion you have and how much you got out of the program and there is no putpose for a grade. Some students join for an "easy A" which is the wrong reason. Giving grades to a FIRST robotics team takes all the meaning out of the program and breaks many people hearts as it has my own. Let peolple participate at their own level and let that be that. I know I haven't explained this too well but just trust me: stay as a club. Robotics is about team work and fabrication along with many other things, but not essays.