Gann Academy Students Take Top Honors in International Robotics Competition

Names: Anna Fasman, Jacqueline Finkielsztein and Sam Rosenstein

School: Gann Academy

Age: Anna (12), Jacqueline (12) and Sam (13)

Accomplishment: These members of Gann Academy’s Robots and Brain Bots Inc. (RABBI) team recently won a prestigious award at the For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Tech Challenge World Championship in St. Louis, Mo. They won the highest honor among the 128 competing teams representing 29 different countries.

Keys to Awesomeness: The eight students who make up RABBI caught the eye of the judges by displaying their unique team experience, extensive community outreach and strong character. The two most impressive undertakings by the students were: their attempt to create a fully autonomous robot, and their willingness to translate for non-English speaking teams. It was these two acts, among others that helped team RABBI stand out.

In its inaugural year, RABBI’s accomplishments are unprecedented. Having success at the local, state and international level of competition is a testament to their hard work and dedication. Students spent hours during and after school designing, building and programming a robot to compete in the competition. They also took part in numerous community outreach and fundraising activities to build awareness and educate others on the mission of FIRST.

"The entire Gann community has much to be proud of," said Josh Neudel, the school's science department chair. "Our students not only produced an innovative design for their robot, but conducted themselves in a way that shows the true spirit of the values we teach."

“This is an incredible educational experience, and quite an accomplishment,” said Rabbi Marc Baker, head of school. “The work these students have done and what they have been able to achieve in such a short period of time is truly inspirational.”

FIRST is a non-profit organization designed to inspire young adults to pursue a career in the sciences and technology by creating exciting hands-on experiences.

The Inspire Award is the most prestigious honor given out by FTC. It is given to the team who finishes in the top of the judging categories. The winner of the Inspire Award is considered to be a role model for all others competing.