Excitement Builds as West Valley School Robotics Team Prepares for World Championship
KALISPELL, MONTANA — A team of aspiring young engineers and inventors from West Valley School is gearing up to represent Montana on a global stage, marking a historic moment for their school and community. The group, dubbed the “Gummy Sharks,” will compete at the upcoming FIRST Lego League World Championships in Houston, Texas, a prestigious event that showcases student achievements in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
A Historic Milestone for West Valley School
"It’s a significant milestone for us. We’re the inaugural team from West Valley to reach this level, and the excitement is palpable," shared sixth-grade student Hap Pemble. His enthusiasm captures the spirit of the entire team as they prepare to showcase their skills against more than 100 competitors from around the world.
The Quest for Knowledge and Innovation
Pemble is not just a team member; he plays a vital role in the team’s innovation efforts. "I mainly focus on designing the board and conducting research. It’s a collaborative process that teaches us so much," he explained, highlighting the hands-on Learning that defines the robotics competition.
Supporting the Future of Robotics
The FIRST Lego League promotes STEM education by challenging teams to build and code robots capable of completing specific tasks. This year’s competition theme revolves around innovative problem-solving, where participants are tasked to find practical solutions to real-world issues using their robotic creations.
Overcoming Nerves and Embracing Opportunity
While the prospect of competing on a global stage can be daunting, Pemble acknowledges the importance of enjoying the experience. "It’s a little nerve-wracking, but you have to remind yourself to have fun and appreciate the moment. We’re not just competing; we’re representing Montana," he stated, echoing sentiments shared by his teammates.
Proud Coach and Community Support
The Gummy Sharks’ coach, Kris Keller, has been instrumental in guiding the team through their preparations. "I’m incredibly proud of these students. They have dedicated countless hours, putting in hard work to reach this point. This opportunity is a testament to their commitment,” Keller expressed.
However, the journey to Houston is not without its challenges. The team needs to raise $20,000 to cover travel costs, accommodation, and special excursions to notable spots like NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the Houston Zoo during the competition.
Extracurricular Excellence at West Valley
"This initiative is an extracurricular activity, a project outside of their regular school curriculum. It’s inspiring to see these students excel and earn opportunities like this," Keller added, emphasizing the importance of such programs in fostering creativity and critical thinking.
Cultural Exchange and Global Perspectives
As the team prepares for the upcoming competition, sixth-grade student Caleb Kruger is particularly excited about the chance to learn from diverse cultures. "I’m looking forward to seeing what other teams bring to the table and how they represent their countries. It’s a unique opportunity to build friendships and exchange ideas," Kruger said, showcasing the collaborative spirit of the event.
Meet the Gummy Sharks
The team comprises a diverse group of students eager to make their mark at the championship:
- Kody Mangis – Fifth Grade
- Andrew Willis – Sixth Grade
- Brandon Hemmelman – Sixth Grade
- Hap Pemble – Sixth Grade
- Owen Banek – Sixth Grade
- Caleb Krueger – Sixth Grade
- Henry Weber – Seventh Grade
- Marcus Bedtelyon – Eighth Grade
Join the Mission to Houston
With mounting excitement and preparations underway, the Gummy Sharks need community support to make this dream a reality. Those wishing to help fund the team’s journey to Houston can make contributions here or reach out to Coach Keller directly at kkeller@westwalleyschool.com.
A Community Rallying Together
The response from the community has been overwhelming, with parents, teachers, and local businesses stepping up to support the initiative. Understanding the profound impact of robotics education on young minds, many see the potential for these students to become future leaders in technology and engineering.
The Team’s Gratefulness
The students express immense gratitude for the support they have received. "It’s heartwarming to see everyone come together to help us achieve this goal. We feel encouraged and inspired," stated Pemble, radiating optimism for the journey ahead.
Showcasing Skills on a Global Scale
Within weeks, the Gummy Sharks will take to the World Championship stage, where they’ll present their designs, showcase their robots, and participate in rigorous competitions. This experience promises not only to test their engineering skills but also to nurture their teamwork and problem-solving abilities.
The Thrill of Competition
As the team counts down to the championship, the anticipation continues to build. Caleb Kruger articulated what many team members feel: "I’m just excited for the whole experience of competing but also learning. It’s going to be a blast!"
Bringing Home Pride
While winning is undoubtedly a goal, the emphasis remains on learning, growth, and the pride of representing Montana. "No matter what happens, we know we have worked hard and that we are doing our best. That in itself is a victory," concluded Pemble.
Conclusion
The Gummy Sharks from West Valley School embody the spirit of innovation and learning that the FIRST Lego League seeks to promote. With their hard work and determination, they are poised to make a significant impact on the global stage. The community’s support, coupled with their zeal for knowledge, positions them not only to compete but to inspire others within and beyond Kalispell. As they embark on this exciting journey, the enthusiasm of these young pioneers tells a story of hope, dreams, and the remarkable future of STEM education.
