Montgomery schools celebrate first middle school robotics team qualifying for world competition

Robotics took the spotlight at the Montgomery County Public Schools Board Meeting on March 11, 2025, as officials celebrated a groundbreaking achievement for local students. For the first time, a middle school robotics team from McKee Middle School has qualified for the world competition in Dallas, Texas, marking a significant milestone for the district.

The excitement was palpable as the McKee Middle School robotics team, known as Team 36116B, was introduced. Members Fernando Francisco, Carter Townsend, and Rashad Robinson proudly represented their school, having triumphed through regional and state competitions to earn their spot on the world stage. "This is a big, big success," an enthusiastic board member remarked, highlighting the team's historic qualification.

The partnership with Hyundai has been instrumental in fostering this success, initially sponsoring middle school robotics programs and now extending support to high schools. The board expressed hope that this collaboration will continue to thrive, opening doors for more students in the future.

In addition to the middle school achievement, two high school teams from Brew Tech High School and another local school have also received invitations to compete at the world level. The board is optimistic about further qualifications as the season progresses.

This celebration of robotics not only showcases the talents of Montgomery's students but also emphasizes the importance of community partnerships in enhancing educational opportunities. As these young innovators prepare for their upcoming competition, the district looks forward to the potential impact of their achievements on future generations.