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Spark Squad

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Spark Squad is our FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) team for students in 5th-8th grade. Spark Squad designs, builds, and codes robots to compete in a head-to-head challenge with other FTC teams, learning STEM skills and engineering principles.

Unlike many FTC teams that are affiliated with schools, Spark Squad is a community- based team. This unique approach brings together students from different backgrounds, schools, and experiences, creating a diverse and collaborative environment where everyone’s idecas and talents are valued. We're happy to say that the Spark Squad qualified for the 2024 Michigan FTC State Championship-NW in their very first year competing.​

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Spark Squad is proud to have an all-female leadership team and 33% of its members are girls, actively working to break down barriers for young women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. We provide a strong example of gender diversity in robotics and offer mentorship from female engineers and students.

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Interested in getting involved? You can donate to the team here. Or contact us directly for information about coaching or registering to join the team.

SPARK SQUAD - FTC Team Application

Spark Squad - FIRST Tech Challenge Team Information

Spark Squad is a community-based FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) team. Our team’s funding is primarily based on team member dues, which will be calculated once the full roster is finalized by June 13th. Each team member is responsible for paying their dues or fundraising to cover the cost.

General Time Commitments

Please note that exact dates are still to be determined, but here is an overview of the expected schedule:

  • Team Meetings:

    • August: 2-4 team meetings (approximately 2 hours each)

    • Kick-Off Meeting: September 7th

    • Build Season: September 8th – November 2nd (Expect 5-8 hours of meetings per week during this period)

      • Additional commitments may be required for coding and drive team members.

  • Outreach Events:

    • 3 outreach events (each 2-4 hours in duration).

    • Dates and locations to be confirmed.

  • League Events:

    • October – December: League events that require participation and attendance.

  • Qualifying Event:

    • One qualifier event will take place between October and December.

  • State and World Championships: If Spark Squad qualifies, we will also participate in the State Championship and potentially the World Championship.


Commitment to Schedule

Given the outlined schedule for the season, we kindly ask that all team members commit to the majority of these time commitments, including meetings, events, and practices. We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, but a strong commitment is essential for the success of the team. Please let us know if you anticipate any scheduling conflicts or have concerns about meeting these commitments.


SparkSquad@TheFutureInnovatorsAcademy.com

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