NEWS RELEASE
TIMMINS HIGH AND VOCATIONAL SCHOOL
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Robotics inspires students
Timmins High Robotics Team shines at provincial competition
The City of Timmins is being put on the map as a community whose students take science and engineering seriously.
That’s thanks in great part to the ‘Northern Lights Robotics Team’ from Timmins High.
Formed four years ago, the team has become an ongoing program at the school, and the only one of its kind in Timmins.
Each year of the program students have competed in the FIRST robotics contest.
The latest competition was held in Oshawa March 10 through 16.
“This year we came in 22nd out of the 50 teams that were there. Last year we were about 35th. We keep getting better and better every year,” says Timmins High Principal Greg Vincze.
To express their appreciation of support from the Board, members of the team introduced their latest robot to Trustees and Board Administration, at DSB ONE’s regular Board meeting on April 5.
“They gave us six weeks to build this robot,” explained Grade 12 student Alex Kos. “What makes it special is the wheels, so we can get over obstacles easily. It’s also relatively short, and less heavy, so that it is easy to manoeuvre.”
The program is a worthwhile one, according to Vincze.
“We have 17 students who are part of our team. The experience that the kids get in terms of learning about electronics, the build, design, programming, rules and safety....it’s just a great learning experience for all of them. As well, it’s an open concept program, so if students want to join the team halfway through the school year, they can. We want students to feel comfortable.”
Alex Kos couldn’t agree more.
He’s been part of the team since it’s inception, when he was just a Grade 9 student at the school.
“Participating in the competitions has made me more of an outgoing person,” added Kos. “There have been good networking opportunities, the competition is very friendly, and the people are amazing. Through and through it’s been great.”
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