From our classrooms to nationwide competitions, our students are continuing to display a high level of excellence in the world of robotics.
In recent weeks, Concept Schools has had two stand out robotics programs––Michigan Math and Science Academy and Horizon Science Academy Columbus High––rise to the occasion after earning spots in prestigious championship rounds. Here's a closer look at their milestones and journeys to get to where they are at now.
Michigan Math And Science Academy Qualifies For World Championship
The Michigan Math and Science Academy (MMSA) robotics team soared to victory at the Aerial Drone Competition on Feb. 8, taking home the championship title at Kettering University. The group competed against 22 teams from across the region on their road to a first-place finish.
The Aerial Drone Competition challenged participants in multiple areas, including autonomous flight missions, manual flight missions, teamwork and collaboration missions, and engineering and innovation missions. Months of dedicated preparation paid off as the team demonstrated its ability to problem-solve under pressure, apply advanced technical knowledge, and collaborate effectively to outperform their competitors.
“This victory is a testament to the hard work and perseverance of our students,” said Mr. Dogan, MMSA Robotics Coach. “Their commitment to learning, innovation, and teamwork truly sets them apart, and we couldn’t be prouder of their achievement.”
Members of the MMSA Robotics Team take their turn navigating the drone obstacle course.
With this regional championship win, the MMSA Robotics Team has earned a coveted spot at the World Championship, where they will compete against top teams from around the globe. The students are eager to take on this next challenge and continue pushing the boundaries of drone technology and engineering excellence.
“We are incredibly proud of our students for this outstanding accomplishment,” said MMSA’s Principal Abdullah Pehlivan, Ed.D.. “Their success reflects not only their dedication but also the strength of our STEM programs in preparing future innovators and leaders.”
MMSA invites the school community and local supporters to cheer on the team as they prepare for the upcoming World Championship.
Horizon Science Academy Columbus High Shines On The Way To North Central Championship Round
It was only two years ago that HSA Columbus High didn’t have a drone club. Since then, the school has not only become a robotics force to be reckoned with but it has consistently become a top-performing team at all of their competitions.
Most recently, the Hawks made their way to West Virginia to compete in the Aerial Drone Competition Tournament. They won the Coding Mission Champion round and ended up qualifying for the North Central Championship.
HSA Columbus High Drone Club students pose with their latest trophy.
“Watching my students improve since we got the drones in 2023 has been an amazing experience,” said Ismail Dal, the team’s coach. “They have learned so much, not just about flying drones, but also about teamwork and problem-solving. Seeing their confidence grow with each competition makes me really proud.”
Back in 2023, HSA Columbus High purchased its first set of drones after it secured the OSLN Classroom Grant, which invests in K-12 STEM programming in Ohio. Shortly after, the school formed a drone club which was met with plenty of excitement by its students. The team began learning about drone competition rules and safety protocols while sharpening its skills throughout the year.
All of the hard work the Hawks put in paid off––as they have gone on to win multiple award categories during their competitions this year including Airmanship, Teamwork Mission, Communication Mission Champion and Coding Champion.
The best is yet to come for this club that has flashed its great potential in a short period of time.
“This journey has shown them that with hard work and dedication, they can achieve great things,” said Dal.