WELCOME!

PEARO aims to establish and support FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) teams at high schools in western North Carolina. Through participation on an FRC team, students gain valuable knowledge and skills that will foster interest and excitement in pursuing a career in STEM. This 2-year grant will provide professional development for students and teachers, safety training, tools and materials, as well as funds to cover hotel and transportation costs.

Western Carolina University (WCU), in collaboration with FIRST North Carolina and local school districts, seeks to equip rural North Carolina high school students of today for the world of tomorrow by Providing Equitable Access to Robotics Opportunities (PEARO). Rural schools and their students are at a disadvantage because of the smaller property tax base that fuels local investment in schools. There are also fewer after-school activities for youth living in rural areas. WCU seeks to level the playing field for high school students who live in the western part of North Carolina. This collaboration will bring life-changing robotics activities to close the opportunity gaps. These active learning activities will increase enthusiasm for science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The process of scientific inquiry will enhance students working knowledge and will expose them to scientific and engineering professionals. These professionals can enlighten students about STEM, its role in our daily lives and STEM career path choices.

This project will start multiple FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) teams in 2024/2025 - 2025/2026. Our goal is to provide all interested high-school students in the westernmost counties an opportunity to participate on a high-school competitive robotics team.

WCU, in conjunction with FIRST North Carolina, will use curriculum designed by FIRST to conduct Professional Development for FRC students and mentors. This PD will increase knowledge of safety, tools, programming, electrical wiring, mechanical design and project management.

TIMELINE

July-September 2024 - rolling application deadline

August/September/October/November - FRC PD

Saturday, January 4, 2025 - FRC Kickoff

January and February - FRC Build Season

March and April - FRC Competition Season

FUNDING

The teams will be provided funding for:

Registration Fee (which includes Robot Kit of Parts and entry for 2 competitions)
Tools and Equipment
Transportation to events
Hotels for events
Teacher Stipend

REGISTRATION

To participate, please complete this short application form. We will follow-up with more details. If you have any questions about this project, please contact us at teamsupport@firstnorthcarolina.org