Fox Cities News

The Oshkosh Area School District's robotics team, Baksteen Valken, is set to fundraise for their participation in the American Robotics Tournament in New Jersey. The fundraising event will take place at Perry Tipler Middle School on Friday, April 25, starting at 6:15 PM, with a presentation of their project beginning at 6:30 PM, followed by a raffle at 7:20 PM.

Comprising students from Carl Traeger Middle School, Perry Tipler Middle School and ALPs, and Vel Phillips Middle School, the team qualified for nationals after excelling at regional and state levels. Highlights of the event will include a presentation of "Baksteen Buoy," live robot demonstrations, raffles, and information on forming new teams.

"This showcase is not just about fundraising, it's about inspiring the next generation of robotics enthusiasts," said team coach Amy Hardy. "We want students and families to see what's possible through FIRST LEGO League and learn how they can get involved next year, whether by joining our team or starting their own."

For this season's "SUBMERGED" challenge, Baksteen Valken developed the "Baksteen Buoy," a solar-powered device to detect dangerous rip currents. The device enhances safety with warning lights and deployable flotation, controlled by a mobile app.

The team will compete at the national level alongside 52 other teams from the United States from May 16 to 19 in Jersey City. Funds raised will contribute to covering registration fees, travel, lodging, and uniforms.

Oshkosh offers three levels of robotics programs through its Recreation Department:

- FIRST LEGO League Explore for grades 2-4, an introductory level focusing on building a model with LEGO bricks.

- FIRST LEGO League Challenge for grades 4-8, where Baksteen Valken competes, involving building robots to complete challenges.

- Youth Wave Robotics for high school students in grades 9-12, an advanced level.

Those unable to attend can support the team via donations at https://www.mightycause.com/story/Bvnj. For further information or support details, contact amy.hardy@oshkosh.k12.wi.us.

For more information about these programs, visit the Oshkosh Recreation Department website at https://oshkoshrecdept.com/youth-programs/youth-crafting-enrichment/lego-league-wave-robotics.