The First Lego League Regional competition at BMS on December 13 was an exciting showcase of creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving. Students from multiple schools gathered to present their innovative robot designs and project solutions built around this year’s theme. The energy in the gym was contagious: teams rotated between judging tables, the competition field, robot design presentations, and the innovation project expo, explaining their research, demonstrating coding strategies, and troubleshooting last-minute technical issues with calm determination.
Judges evaluated teams on four main areas: the robot game, the core values, the robot design presentation, and the innovation project. During robot matches, groups displayed careful engineering—balancing speed with reliability as their robots completed pre-coded missions on a complex mat. In judging sessions, students articulated their design process, explained successes and setbacks, and reflected on how they collaborated. The emphasis on gracious professionalism was clear: teams supported one another, shared tips, and celebrated each other’s successes.
The project expo highlighted real-world thinking: students researched community problems, proposed inventive solutions, like an automatic sifter and a cooling backpack for archaeologists, and presented prototypes or action plans. Several teams tied their project to local needs, demonstrating how STEM learning connects to everyday challenges. Mentors, teachers, and family members were proud to see students apply critical thinking, communication, and persistence—skills that extend far beyond the competition floor.
Our home BMS teams: The Techno Treasures and The Sand Stormers were both outstanding. They rotated 1st and 2nd place in multiple categories with The Techno Treasures taking home 1st place in Innovation Project, and the Sand Stormers coming away as GRAND CHAMPIONS!
Overall, the BMS regional event offered a memorable day of learning and inspiration. Students left with new ideas, stronger teamwork skills, and a deeper interest in engineering and coding. For many, the experience reinforced that curiosity and collaborative effort can turn creative concepts into practical solutions—exactly the mindset First Lego League aims to foster.