What should I do

[CrashZero]

Thanks for all the advice, but it seems that no other teachers in my school know enough about technology to sign on with me and my crew. I mean there are like 4 of us in total including me who would for sure work on the robot, and since the rest of the school has its own intrests, I am looking for a different school that would have me. I am however having difficulty finding one that is within my area to join.

[Andy Baker]

Originally Posted by CrashZero

Thanks for all the advice, but it seems that no other teachers in my school know enough about technology to sign on with me and my crew.

Keep in mind that you don't need a teacher to give you technical mentoring and assistance. Many teachers do this, but some don't. You can always get technical assistance from professionals in industry. Many teams have teachers who coordinate the administration aspects of the team.

Andy B.

[Cory]

Originally Posted by Andy Baker

Keep in mind that you don't need a teacher to give you technical mentoring and assistance. Many teachers do this, but some don't. You can always get technical assistance from professionals in industry. Many teams have teachers who coordinate the administration aspects of the team.

Andy B.

Absolutely. Team 100 has had a teacher as the heart and soul of the team for many many years (7,8?) she does not have much technical expertise, but she is fantastic at dealing with the administration, and all the other behind the scenes stuff, in addition to many other things. While having technically inclined mentors is very important, having a person like her is absolutely necessary as well.

Cory

[Ian Mackenzie]

I'm assuming your teacher knows this, but you could also remind him that there is now a regional competition in Waterloo, so you can avoid the trip to Toronto (which could save you quite a bit in transportation, accommodation and general hassle). If you need any help convincing a teacher or company to help mentor and support the team, I (and several others on the FIRST Waterloo Regional planning committee) might be able to help - we'd love to see you guys here in 2005.

If you absolutely can't get the team started again at Stratford Northwestern, is Stratford Central really that far to go? It didn't look like much on a map, but I guess it might be difficult if you don't have access to a car and public transit isn't available. They do certainly have a good team at Stratford Central, though, and I can put you in touch with the teacher there if you want (PM me).

[Astronouth7303]

Originally Posted by CrashZero

Thanks for all the advice, but it seems that no other teachers in my school know enough about technology to sign on with me and my crew. I mean there are like 4 of us in total including me who would for sure work on the robot, and since the rest of the school has its own intrests, I am looking for a different school that would have me. I am however having difficulty finding one that is within my area to join.

The one teacher who was on our team knew next to nothing about tech (he retired last year). All tech help came from parents and the like (on works as an engineer at a local TV station).

[Karthik]

CrashZero,


The key right now is for you find another teacher who is willing to be the "staff sponsor". If you want, Ian or I can contact your principal and discuss the situation with him/her. You need the one teacher, so you'll be allowed to travel to the event, and hold after school meetings. This teacher does not need to be the kind who's going to spend 12 hours a day on the robot, rather someone who will provide occasional supervision. The next step I recommend, is finding some industry professionals who will support and mentor your team. They can provide that day to day supervision that you'll need. The first place I would look, is parents of team members. Last year they probably saw how great FIRST is, and will want to help out.

Again, if you need any help, just ask. Our planning committee is more than willing to do what we can.

Good luck,