Young Engineers Showcase Innovation and Teamwork at Elementary First LEGO League Competition

Mount Olive High School buzzed with excitement and youthful energy as budding engineers from all over New Jersey gathered on November 18th for the annual New Jersey State First LEGO League (FLL) Regional Qualifying Tournament. The event showcased the ingenuity and teamwork of students who participated in the FLL challenge, themed "Masterpiece."

Teams of young engineers, ranging from ages 9 to 14, brought their LEGO robots and innovative projects to the competition. The FLL competition not only encourages students to build and program LEGO robots to complete specific missions but also challenges them to identify and solve real-world problems related to the competition theme.

The opening ceremony kicked off with an inspiring speech from Ernie Dicicco, Event Director, emphasizing the importance of STEM education and the development of problem-solving skills in young minds. "The First LEGO League is not just a competition; it's an opportunity for these students to explore, create, and collaborate. We are witnessing future innovators and leaders in action," said Devon Marques, Sandshore's FLL Coach.

Sandshore's FLL team consisted of two teams comprised of fourth and fifth-grade students. These students met during their lunch, and before and after school to learn coding, brick manipulation, and overall competition components. The team was led by Mrs. Devon Marques, 3rd Grade Teacher, and Mrs. Roberta Guisto, Media Specialist. 

The highlight of the event was the robot game, where teams programmed their LEGO robots to navigate a series of intricate missions on a themed playing field. Precision, creativity, and strategic thinking were on display as the robots maneuvered through challenges designed to test the students' engineering prowess.

In addition to the robot game, each team presented their innovative solutions to a real-world problem related to the "Masterpiece" theme. From eco-friendly solutions to community issues, the students showcased a diverse range of projects that highlighted their awareness of global challenges and their commitment to making a positive impact. Specifically, Sandshore's teams created solutions to involving ALL students in sports and games. 

The atmosphere was not only one of friendly competition but also of collaboration and camaraderie. Teams exchanged ideas, shared their experiences, and cheered each other on throughout the event. Parents and teachers watched with pride as their young engineers demonstrated not only technical skills but also effective communication and teamwork.

The panel of judges, comprised of local STEM professionals, educators, and community leaders, faced the challenging task of evaluating the teams based on their robot performance, project presentations, and core values, which include teamwork, inclusion, and gracious professionalism.

At the awards ceremony, Sandshore's Team 1 received the Engineering Excellence Award. This award celebrates a team with an efficiently designed robot, an innovative project solution that effectively addresses the season challenge and great core values evident in all they do. 

Sandshore's Team 1 ranked 7th and Team 2 ranked 8th out of 30 teams in the robot challenge. They were the highest ranking elementary teams. 

As the LEGO bricks were carefully packed away and the young engineers left the auditorium, the impact of the First LEGO League competition lingered in the minds of participants. The event not only showcased the technical skills of the students but also fostered a love for learning, collaboration, and problem-solving—a foundation for future success in the ever-evolving world of science and technology.