Don't miss these opportunities and new information
FIRST Partner Conference Updates
Hi FTC Coaches and Mentors,
Partner Conference was a great experience in Atlanta. I wanted to make sure you had the new information and updates for the coming season! Enjoy!
Take a look below.
Thanks,
Shelly, Isaiah, Amber, Doc, Alex, Kaitlin & Lisa
FIRST HQ is looking at ALL PROGRAMS as equal across levels and using lessons learned across the programs to innovate and improve. FTC is not a little FRC, but its own robust program.
This paradigm shift highlights the importance of each program filling its niche — using lessons learned to improve all that FIRST has to offer.
Game Manual
Will have ONE Game Manual this season.
Shared vocabulary across FTC and FRC programs.
The changes to rules will be marked up and available for review similar to FRC rule updates presently.
Q&A will be considered secondary to Game Manual updates.
Updates to rules will be published each Thursday at noon .
Advancement
World Allocations will calculated based on our total team registrations as of December 2.
HQ is adding 32 slots to Worlds.
HQ is exploring ways to add additional advancement opportunities. Super regionals have several barriers, so they are looking at Premier Invitational Events. This is in early discussions, but please know that HQ recognizes that FTC is growing and that more opportunities for adavancement are needed. FIRST Chesapeake is currently exploring hosting a pilot Premier Invitation Event
FTC Score
Inspection Schedules will be used at events along with Judging Schedules to avoid delays and overlap.
Equipment
Sourcing and supplying equipment has been an issue in the past.
FIRST HQ is using a timeline for storage of equipment and keep it stocked in the storefront.
New control system will be across programs but they will not remove the drivers hub for this season.
Rookie Team Grant
$750 registration grant available for new FTC teams.
These grants will be first come, first serve
Rolling evaluation of applications monthly on 3rd Thursday until the resources run out.
No temporary team numbers when registering new teams
Judging
FIRST is looking at simplifying and standardizing judging using:
Rubrics
Standardized execution
Hybrid judging will still be available and will be used to better equip judges to ask questions and get to know teams during the interview session.
NEW! FIRST Mentor Development Program
FIRST HQ is working on a mentor development program roll out. No date was given. It seems very similar to our Geared Up Program, but would be available to all mentors and designed to support new mentors.
Career and Technical Education- New resources available online at FIRST. Check them out here!
Need to talk? Have a question?
Sign up and stop by for my office hours on Wednesdays between 4-6pm and Fridays from 11am-1pm.
NEW! Virtual Suggestion Box!
Do you have an idea or suggestion that might help us improve?
