Robot Competition

* Re “School’s Robot Falls Short in Competition,” April 7.

You have missed the philosophy of FIRST and the competition. FIRST stands for “For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology.” The purpose is to inspire curiosity and create interest in science and mathematics among youth by immersing them in the world of engineering and showing the important connection between classroom lessons and real world applications. The competition is not a win or lose situation. It’s not to teach science or technology but to inspire kids to pursue careers in these fields. What would have been better said is that for the second year, students at Chatsworth High School were able to build a working robot in just 6 weeks. The students and robot did not fall short. They were very successful.

RICHARD CHELLEW

Winnetka