by Neohontisha warrior
editor@portisabelsouthpadre.com
On February 9, 2024, Port Isabel Junior High School students participated in an interactive STEM robotics workshop, and students were selected to participate for their exceptional academic achievements in science and mathematics.
Texas A&M Spark! The PK-12 Engineering Education Awareness (TA&MS!) workshop was hosted at Port Isabel Junior High School by the College and Career Readiness Department of the Port Isabel Independent School District (PI-ISD), according to a press release.
According to the press release, the workshop was moderated by Andy De La Cruz, TA&MS! The program director and presenter facilitated a hands-on activity that fostered students' interest and enhanced their critical thinking skills, programming and robotics knowledge.
The event was attended by 50 enthusiastic sixth-grade students at the workshop, where they had the opportunity to work with palm-sized Ozobot robots, the press release said. The Ozobot robots will follow colorful guided paths drawn by the students themselves, thus increasing the understanding and implementation of programming and robotics knowledge.
As stated in the press release, Superintendent Terri Capistran said, “We are thrilled to offer our students this unique opportunity to explore the wonderful world of robotics and programming,” and continued, “Initiatives like this align with our district’s commitment to preparing students for success in college and careers.”
Director of College and Career Readiness, Dr. Juan J. Mendoza: “We believe that exposure to hands-on STEM experiences is critical to our students’ future success.” “Events like this not only spark curiosity, but also help develop valuable skills that are essential in today’s rapidly evolving job market.”
Port Isabel Middle School Principal, Debra Quist, along with dedicated teachers, were on hand to support and encourage the students throughout the workshop. School Director Quest stressed the importance of providing students with diverse educational opportunities to prepare them to face the challenges and opportunities of the future, as stated in the press release.
At the conclusion of the workshop, it was noted that the interactive robotics workshop is part of the Spark mission! Broader to empower Rio Grande Valley students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in advanced manufacturing and other STEM-related fields. By fostering a passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education at an early age, initiatives like these aim to provide students with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world.