Frequently Asked Questions (and Answers)

Please see below for Frequently Asked Questions and their answers. This list will be updated regularly; please check back often. If you have a question that is not on this page, please reach out to hhosokawa@bostonpublicschools.org!

Q1. Who can participate in the Robotics Olympics?

A1. Anyone who is a student in the Boston Public Schools can participate. You may participate as a part of a school group (i.e., your school's robotics class or after-school program), or as an individual with your parent's permission.

Community organizations in Boston that mainly serve BPS students will also be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact hhosokawa@bostonpublicschools.org if you are interested in participating.

Q2. How many challenges can I compete in?

A2. Because multiple events run concurrently, each student (or team of students) may only participate in ONE challenge.

Q3. Can I work in a team?

A3. Of course! You can work in a team of UP TO THREE students.

Q4. What do I need to participate?

A4. While most of the challenges are designed for LEGO EV3 or LEGO NXT systems, there are some challenges that are can be entered with WeDo kits or non-electronic traditional LEGO pieces. Please see Challenge Descriptions for specific information.

Q5. What do I need to bring to the Robotics Olympics?

A5. Students need to bring their completed robot or creation with fully charged batteries. In addition, each school should have some assortment of extra pieces (in case of emergency robot repair), charging cable, laptop and USB cable (for re-programming if necessary). Water and light snacks will be provided.

Q6. Can friends and families attend?

A6. Yes! This is a family-friendly event.

Q7. How can I volunteer at the event?

A7. We rely on volunteers to help judge and run the events. Please sign up on the Volunteer Sign-up Form if you are interested.

Q8. I can only be there for part of the afternoon. Can I still participate?

A8. We will do our best to schedule the events accordingly. Please contact Haruna at hhosokawa@bostonpublicschools.org as soon as you are aware of a time conflict.

Q9. I don't have any motors or electronic kits. Can I still participate?

A9. Yes! Challenges 2 and 8 do not require any electronic components. If you are in grades 2 or below, Jr Olympics is another option as well.

Do you have a question that is not answered on this page? Please email Haruna Hosokawa at hhosokawa@bostonpublicschools.org.

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