Community Corner

Livingston ‘Emerald Knights’ Inspire Fellow Youth With Robotics, STEM

"Supporting youth robotics isn't just about building robots – it's about building connections, pursuing interests and having fun."

(Photos courtesy of Emerald Knights FTC Team #10582)

LIVINGSTON, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of a Patch Livingston community member. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

Members of the Emerald Knights FTC Team #10582 are high school students from Livingston who lead with heart. They know the importance of both teamwork and community connection as the team advances through this year’s FIRST Tech Challenge season.

The team’s members continue to show the community how robotics programs do far more than build robots. They build confidence, friendships, and encourage younger kids to get excited about technology.

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With sponsorships from businesses, the team is able to compete in competitions, purchase parts, and materials for their robots, and fund community events like their Beat Bots Program to teach younger kids about STEM. When team members interact with the community, they feel like they are paying it forward.

“Supporting youth robotics isn't just about building robots – it's about building connections, pursuing interests, and having fun,” said Jason Q., Head of Outreach for the Emerald Knights FTC Team #10582. “When the community supports programs like ours, they are investing in creating transformative experiences for every student who, like me, might discover a hidden passion and a supportive team.”

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Team co-captain and senior Crystal Z. reflected on the team’s collaborative spirit. “Our team works together to code, design, and construct our robot. The experience is about making sure each member feels included and has the chance to contribute. Through community events like our Women in STEM webinar and Beat Bots program for younger students, we’ve been able to spread the excitement of STEM and encourage future innovators.”

This year, The Tutor Shack, a local tutoring center committed to promoting academic confidence, continued their support along with a growing list of sponsors to help the team reach its goals. “The Emerald Knights enthusiasm and commitment to inspire early learners reflects the values we uphold through our support of youth initiatives,” said Steph Legnosky, owner of The Tutor Shack. “We’re proud to support these students as they inspire their peers and community through STEM.”

To learn more about The Tutor Shack and their personalized academic support that has helped countless students achieve their test prep goals, boost GPA, and develop organization and confidence that lasts a lifetime, visit their website.

For more information about the FTC Team 10582, the Livingston High School Emerald Knights, a student-run robotics team, and their upcoming competition in February visit their website.

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