MANSFIELD – Nine talented students from F.I.R.S.T. School showcased their impressive skills and innovative projects at The Ohio Education Technology Conference (OETC), held in Columbus, from Feb. 11 to 13.
This prestigious event provided the students with a platform to demonstrate their knowledge and creativity to a wide audience of educators and technology enthusiasts.
The entire student body from F.I.R.S.T. School dedicated countless hours leading up to the event, working diligently to ensure the presentations were successful.
Their hard work culminated in two exciting days filled with engaging demonstrations and interactions with conference attendees.
Robotics Day
On Wednesday, Feb. 12, Vanessa Wagner, Principal of F.I.R.S.T. School, accompanied the students and F.I.R.S.T. School teacher Vivian Brownlow to the robotics demonstration.
The students expertly guided their peers from other schools in driving Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) and demonstrated the use and programming of microbits. This interactive session highlighted the students’ proficiency in robotics and technology.
Wagner praised the students’ dedication and success:
“The students at F.I.R.S.T. School worked tirelessly to learn the skills needed to participate in this conference, and it was a pleasure to watch their hard work and the hard work of Brownlow pay off,” Wagner said.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity and hope our kids can showcase their talents at similar events in the future.”
Drone Day
Thursday, Feb. 13, marked the drone demonstration, with Chris Jones, F.I.R.S.T. School teacher, joining the group.
The students captivated spectators with their drone flying skills, inviting attendees to participate and experience the thrill of drone technology. The session proved to be a massive success, drawing in curious onlookers eager to learn and interact.
Chris and Vivian also talked with other educators about what they do at F.I.R.S.T. and how they incorporate STEM activities into other classes.
“I particularly enjoyed sharing computer science and robotics resources and ideas with other educators,” Vivian said.
“OETC has been a great experience and opportunity for our students,” she continued. ”They overcame nerves and stage fright and came out like pros at the end of our 2-day session. We can’t wait to go back next year!”