Omaha’s Bluestem Middle School Robotics Team Defies Odds, Competes in VEX Robotics World Championships

The VEX Robotics World Championships will see a team from Bluestem Middle School in Omaha Public Schools competing for the first time in about a decade. This new school’s robotics team, under the leadership of coach Sheri Cohen Vollmer, has worked tirelessly to create a robot that meets the competition’s criteria.

Initially, there were 36 students interested in joining the team, but only six dedicated students remain on the team as eighth graders have yet to enroll at the school. Despite this challenge, the team has persevered and created an impressive robot using basic materials like nuts, bolts, and metal.

The VEX challenge this year involves building a robot no larger than 18x18x18 inches and scoring points by getting “tri-balls” into the opposite goal. However, setbacks like having to dismantle their robot due to size restrictions did not deter the team. They continued to work hard and build resilience through these challenges.

Coach Cohen Vollmer describes robotics as the “sport of failing forward,” emphasizing that it is essential to learn from mistakes. The focus for the team is not just on winning but on having fun and learning from their experience. By participating in robotics, they are not only gaining technical skills but also valuable life lessons such as perseverance and problem-solving skills.

The Bluestem Middle School robotics team’s participation in the VEX Robotics World Championships marks an exciting opportunity for them to showcase their skills and passion for technology while learning from others and contributing to a community of like-minded individuals.