Shop Space
your NEEds:
This section is most useful to school-based teams.
The very base of what a team needs for shop space is:
A space that can support the machinery and tools needed
Space for whole team meetings + smaller sub-teams workspaces
Secure Storage Space (materials, robots, pit materials, etc)
A space that's available year round
Adequate and Accessible Space on or within walking distance of Campus.
Ideally in partnerships with CTE Programs within the school
Of course, different teams have unique needs that don't fall into this generalized list.
It's always important to remember that though your needs are fulfilled now, unless there is a policy that confirms your use for the future your shop space is always at risk.
PLAN OF ACTION:
In our experience, what is usually most effective is holding an hour of so long meeting with whoever is in charge of your shop space/desired shop space to discuss a solution to your unmet needs.
Through every level, it's important to include:
Why robotics is important:
Teaches science and technology
Teaches technical and nontechnical skills (media, business, advocacy, outreach)
Teaches soft skills like self-confidence, communication, and leadership etc..
Robotics prepares the future to face real-world problems
Robotics teaches 21st-century job skills
Robotics is one of the best activities for workforce prep because it's...
Project-based learning/hands-on job training
Teaching students skills they can pursue post education
Teaching students skills they will need in the workforce
With Robotics every student can go pro. Yet sports teams, though also valuable, do not have as many successful pursuits in the future yet consistently are provided space without worry.
Though be careful not to put down sports teams, you can continue to make comparisons to how sports are treated through paid coaches, guaranteed space etc
6. Inadequate shop space can create:
Equity issues when:
There is a person limit because of lack of adequate space, causing a selection process and directly stopping many from entering STEM
Only kids who can afford cars can participate in robotics with off-campus shops
People often quit the team because they don't feel comfortable in their shop space
Leads to Performance issues:
7. What parts of your needs aren't being met
8. Suggest a solution
9. Open the time to questions and a discussion working towards a solution
(insert PowerPoint)
If the person you are talking to is resistant or not handling the situation in a timely manner, look to who above them can either push them to action or override their decision.
Though you may meet resistance or see no action being made, never stop advocating. A constant effort is important and delivers the message that you won't take no, and that robotics is something important to today's youth and deserves their attention as a priority.
WHO TO CONTACT:
Local Level:
Mentors and those who have authority over your desired shop space
Principal (insert template)
School District - School Administration
Superintendents (template)
Executive Director for District and Community Affairs (template)
School board (template)
Board of Directors (template)
State Level:
Contact your district Senators and Representatives and look to testify for bills granting credit
Write comments
Contact legislators (template)
Email your legislators saying you support this bill, and invite them to your shop to give the presentation. To find your legislators, search here: (insert website)