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Peekskill HS Robotics Team Gears Up to Host Competition this Saturday

The Peekskill High School Robotics program is preparing to host the 6th Annual First Tech Challenge competition at the school on February 10

The Peekskill High School Robotics program is preparing to host the 6th Annual First Tech Challenge competition at Peekskill High School on Saturday, February 10. The day will feature 28 teams from across New York State. Winners from this competition will advance to the NYS Finals in Utica, New York.

Prior to the start of the competition portion of the event, which kicks off at 10:30 AM, Peekskill High School will welcome next-generation services company Slalom and technology giant Boston Dynamics, who will be bringing along Spot, an autonomous robotic dog that works to safely inspect remote or hazardous environments. These special guests will be on site from 8:30 AM until the competition's start, providing demonstrations and hands-on opportunities for guests.

The Peekskill High School Robotics program, which began in 2016, has grown tremendously over the past 8 years. The program currently serves 15 students and features two teams. The senior team, The Iron Devils (Team 4243) will be hosting Saturday’s competition while the underclassmen team, The Mechanical Devils (Team 12399) will participate in the day’s events.

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The Iron Devils have already secured their spot for the NYS Championships after winning the Utica competition last month.

“Our students are ready for Saturday, and have been working hard around the clock strategizing for the competition,” said Mr. Carlo Vidrini, Peekskill High School Robotics teacher. “Their dedication is unmatched. We stay after school to work and many of them continue their work and programming at home after they leave. It’s great to see them develop a love for what they are doing. I know their efforts will pay off on Saturday.”

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“I am thrilled to host this exciting event that celebrates innovation and ingenuity,” said Peekskill’s Director of Technology Mrs. Janice Reid, who helps coordinate the PHS robotics tournament with Mr. Vidrini. “Hosting provides us with the opportunity to showcase the incredible diversity of robotic designs and technologies aimed at tackling tasks with utmost efficiency and effectiveness. It's a testament to the creativity and problem-solving skills of our students, who continually push the boundaries of what's possible in the field of robotics. I'm proud to be a part of an event that fosters a culture of exploration and discovery, inspiring the next generation of innovators in our district.”

For questions about the PHS Robotics program or this event, please contact Peekskill CSD Communications Director Laura Belfiore at [email protected] or call 914-737-3300 ext. 1533.

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