At St. Joseph High School, good sportsmanship is a fundamental value upheld by the St. Joe Robotics Team. We are committed to fostering a sense of school pride, ethics, and integrity in all our activities and events. Good sportsmanship is a collective effort involving administrators, coaches, mentors, students, parents, and spectators.
Participating in robotics is a privilege with responsibilities. We focus on teaching valuable skills, attitudes, knowledge, and sportsmanship. Being part of a team develops responsibility, cooperation, dedication, and determination; crucial life skills. Parent participation is essential at all levels of our robotics program.
Your involvement and support as parents are crucial. You can contribute as mentors, volunteers, or by providing logistical assistance. Your engagement enhances your child's experience and builds a strong community within St. Joe Robotics. Active participation fosters the growth and success of our teams, and would not be here without you.
Your membership in the St. Joe Robotics team is an extension of your academic endeavors. We hope that your robotics experience will be as rewarding as your classroom learning. As a member of St. Joe Robotics, the positive values you acquire through preparation and competition will have a lasting impact. We emphasize the importance of high levels of sportsmanship, ethics, and integrity in all our interactions and competitions.
The FIRST Core Values are at the heart of our community. They emphasize friendly sportsmanship, respect for contributions, teamwork, learning, and community involvement. Our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is a vital part of the FIRST culture. The FIRST community embodies the philosophies of Gracious Professionalism® and Coopertition® through the following Core Values:
Discovery: We explore new skills and ideas.
Innovation: We use creativity and persistence to solve problems.
Impact: We apply what we learn to improve our world.
Inclusion: We respect each other and embrace our differences.
Teamwork: We are stronger when we work together.
Fun: We enjoy and celebrate what we do!
Gracious Professionalism® is an integral part of the FIRST ethos, representing a way of doing things that promotes high-quality work, values others' contributions, and respects individuals and the community. In the spirit of Gracious Professionalism, intense competition and mutual gain coexist. Teams compete fiercely while treating one another with respect and kindness, avoiding the notion of treating anyone as a loser. Knowledge, competition, and empathy harmoniously blend, contributing to a meaningful life that adds value to society.
To participate in robotics at the high school level in St. Joseph Public Schools, students must comply with the following eligibility rules:
MHSAA Membership: St. Joseph Public Schools are a voluntary member of the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA). Students should familiarize themselves with the MHSAA rules outlined in their handbook, available at the high school athletic office.
a) Age: High school students become ineligible if they reach their 19th birthday before September 1st of the current school year.
b) Enrollment: Students must be enrolled in St. Joseph Public Schools before the fourth Friday after Labor Day (1st semester) or the fourth Friday of February (2nd semester). Homeschool students who are enrolled for at least one course may also participate with approval from the school Principal.
c) Semesters of Enrollment: Students are allowed a maximum of eight semesters of eligibility in high school robotics, with the seventh and eighth semesters being consecutive. They can compete for four first semesters and four second semesters, but cannot participate after graduating from high school.
d) Semester Records: Students must have passed at least 66% of the full credit load potential for a full-time student in the previous semester of enrollment and maintain a passing grade in at least 66% of the full credit load potential for a full-time student in the current semester.
e) Transfer Students: Students transferring from another school are immediately eligible to participate in the robotics team and competitions.
f) Undue Influence: Any use of undue influence by individuals associated with a school to secure or encourage a student's attendance for robotics purposes will result in the student's ineligibility for up to 180 days.
g) Awards and Amateurism: Students cannot receive monetary compensation or valuable consideration for participating in US FIRST sponsored events or officiating in robotics contests. Symbolic or merchandise awards with a value under $25.00 are acceptable. Banquets, luncheons, dinners, trips, admissions to camps or events are allowed if accepted "in kind." Cash, merchandise, certificates, or any other negotiable documents as awards are strictly prohibited.
These eligibility rules ensure fairness and adherence to both MHSAA regulations and St. Joseph Public Schools' standards.
The action of the Michigan Legislature to include “School of Choice” within intermediate school districts does not affect the robotics eligibility of transferring students. Students who transfer by choice from one school to another are immediately eligible for the robotics program.
Personal conduct rules are a necessity for every student participating in the robotics program at St. Joseph Public Schools. Each robotics participant is expected to adhere to these rules, not only for their own well-being but also because they represent the school's students both during and outside of robotics events. Participation in Robotics at St. Joseph Public Schools is considered a privilege, and these requirements apply to all team members.
The objective of this code is to establish and uphold high standards of conduct for St. Joseph Public Schools Robotics. St. Joseph Public Schools acknowledges the pressures and challenges that can arise at home, school, in social settings, and among team members. The robotics code aims to guide and help students and parents understand the expected conduct of robotics students at St. Joseph Public Schools and the seriousness with which violations of the code are regarded. It is our hope that this code will prevent the need for disciplinary measures.
St. Joseph Public Schools will provide excellent coaching, mentors, facilities, and teams to assist robotics students in achieving their best. In return, robotics students are expected to show respect and be accountable to those who are dedicated to helping them develop the skills necessary for success.
As representatives of our school, robotics students are expected to exhibit the highest standards of personal integrity and morality while on school property, in public places, or elsewhere. The robotics student must adhere to the rules outlined in this code and refrain from engaging in any criminal activities within the community, state, or elsewhere. Any behavior that does not align with the expected conduct of our robotics students, as specified in this robotics code, may result in the suspension of the privilege to participate.
Robotics students are expected to demonstrate a competitive spirit, gracious professionalism, and good sportsmanship during competitions. They have a responsibility to display loyalty to the school and their teammates. If a robotics student engages in verbal or physical behavior that brings disgrace or disrespect to the school or their teammates, or negatively affects team morale, disciplinary action will be taken. When questions arise regarding participation and conduct rules, it is the robotics student's responsibility to discuss these matters with the coach.
The following rules are to be adhered to by all robotics participants. These rules are in effect 12 months a year and begin at elementary school and remain in effect until your last event as a high school senior. Any infraction of these rules, or serious unethical conduct on the part of the robotics student, may result in suspension or termination of robotics privileges for that particular robotics application of either a second or third offense.
Students shall not commit any theft of goods, equipment, or property belonging to the school or others.
Students shall not commit any vandalism.
Students shall not engage in any serious unethical conduct.
Inappropriate use of the Internet: Inappropriate communication and/or pictures found on sites that show the robotics student behaving inappropriately will be considered a violation of the student code. Such acts can be pictures of students holding alcoholic containers, tobacco products, illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia, or doing other inappropriate acts. Defenses such as “the container was empty,” etc. will not be a case of defense.
Students shall obey all laws of the community, state or otherwise, and shall not engage in illegal activities.
Students shall not create a threatening environment for any team member, coach or mentor.
Students shall treat all team members, coaches, mentors, and volunteers with respect and courtesy.
Students shall demonstrate punctuality and attend all necessary scheduled robotics events, meetings, and practices.
Students shall prioritize safety at all times, following proper safety protocols and guidelines during robot assembly, testing, and competition.
Students shall exhibit good sportsmanship and fairness, showing respect towards opposing teams and officials. (Coopertition)
Students shall contribute positively to the overall team dynamic and collaborate effectively with teammates.
Students shall take responsibility for their own personal and academic commitments, ensuring that their participation in robotics does not hinder their educational progress.
These rules are meant to establish and maintain high standards of conduct within the St. Joseph Public Schools Robotics program. They aim to promote personal integrity, ethical behavior, teamwork, and a positive representation of the school and its students.
The penalty for violating the Rules of Conduct may include reprimand, suspension from robotics participation, or termination of robotics privileges altogether. The Coach will have no longer than one week's time to make a decision regarding the penalty to be handed out. A robotics student will not be able to participate during the time the Coach is making their decision, but this time of suspension will count towards the student's overall suspension time.
Some behavioral actions may not have action taken against the student if considered a small infraction. These will be recorded, and if there is a recurring issue, there will be action taken.
After a violation of the Code of Conduct, a Coach may decide to provide a warning to a student prior to a penalty. The student will be informed that a warning has been recorded, and any future violations will immediately result in a first-offense penalty.
After a Code of Conduct violation or a warning has already been issued, one or more of the following may occur, as decided by the Coach and other adults involved:
Suspension for any amount of time, based on the severity of the violation.
Immediate pick-up by a parent or guardian.
Loss of team travel privileges.
Loss of Leadership Position: If the student holds a leadership position within the robotics program, they may be removed from that role.
After a second violation of the Code of Conduct, the penalties may become more severe. The Coach, in consultation with other adults involved, may impose one or more of the following:
Extended Suspension: The student may be suspended from robotics participation for a longer duration, depending on the seriousness of the violation.
Mandatory Counseling or Training: The student may be required to attend counseling sessions or training workshops to address the underlying issues related to their conduct.
Probationary Period: The student may be placed on probation, during which their behavior will be closely monitored, and any further violations may result in more severe consequences.
After a third violation, the penalties may escalate further, and the Coach, in consultation with other adults involved, may take the following actions:
Termination of Robotics Privileges: The student's participation in the robotics program may be terminated permanently.
School Disciplinary Action: The school administration may be involved, and additional disciplinary measures may be taken in accordance with the school's policies.
It is important to note that the specific penalties and consequences may vary depending on the severity of the violation, the circumstances surrounding it, and any applicable school or district policies. The primary goal of these penalties is to ensure the maintenance of a safe, respectful, and positive environment within the robotics program.
No one may enter or use the Woods Classroom
No one may enter or use the Graphic Arts Room
No one may use tools or touch anything in the Woodshop
People may only traverse the Woodshop to use the CNC
All technology will be used in compliance with SJPS's technology rules. Items will be respected and cared for. No food permitted around devices.
When arriving at the Innovation Center or at the start of practice, sign in. When leaving, sign out.
When working with tools or machinery
Hair is tied back
Safety glasses are worn
No baggy clothing
No hoodie strings
Closed toe shoes are worn (no crocs)
No stepping over FRC Field Wall
No food on field, food kept in kitchenette
Food
Only consume food and drink on the "Help Yourself" shelf in the fridge
Place personal food items WITH YOUR NAME AND DATE in the Public fridge
Any food on counters or shelves that is easily accessable is up for grabs
Clean up all trash, crumbs, and other food items when done eating
Do not take food out of the kitchenette
Only using machines and tools that you have been trained on by a mentor
If not completely confident, have a mentor watch
A mentor must be nearby when working on machines, and aware you are using them.
When working with tools or machinery
Hair is tied back
Safety glasses are worn
No baggy clothing
No hoodie strings
Closed toe shoes are worn (no crocs)
Clean up any metal shavings or scraps when completing a task
Put tools away where they belong
Only use tools when a mentor is present
No food or non-water drink
Water must be kept on the ground in a sealed container
Keep areas clean - do not leave any robotics items
Log off computer when finished
Leave any classroom supplies alone
Clean off whiteboard after each meeting
Students may not leave the Robotics Area unless they have Coach permission.
If attending a school related activity, students are expected to promptly walk to the area of the activity (Band Concerts, Driver's Ed, etc.)
If attending an activity as a spectator (sports games, concerts, etc), students must have proof of parent permission, and communicate with a coach prior to leaving the robotics area. Students are expected to promptly walk to the area of the activity.
Students staying for study hall may not leave the robotics area without permission.
If using another room (Bio Lab, Student Center, Etc.) clean up the space completely and leave it better than it was found. Chairs up, trash empties, tables wiped, etc.
Do not leave any robotics related items outside of the FAB Lab and Innovation Center.
All accidents by mentors and students must be reported to the Robotics Coordinator promptly. This incldes any cuts, scrapes, and minor injuries escilating to more severe emergencies. Failure to report injuries may result in disciplinary action.
Students are expected to support the team at the competition through scouting. Students must both complete scouting training, and be attentive to their scouting shifts - arriving on time, scouting accurately, and following the expectations outlined in the training. If students do not scout, they are exempt if they are part of: Drive Team, Pit Crew, or have a Coach Approved exemption.
Students are expected to support the team as needed
Attendees must always display the FIRST Core Values and Gracious Professionalism
Students are required to stay after and help clean up our Home District Event on the last day. If they cannot, there must be a pre-arranged absence and make up plan by attending during set-up. Failure to complete either may result in loss of travel for the rest of the season.
When we host the St. Joseph Event, Students are expected to attend both set up (unless excused) and cleanup.
If a robotics student is suspended from school, they will not be eligible to participate in robotics during the suspension. However, if a student who is suspended is placed back into class before the end of the day, they will be eligible to practice or compete in competitions.
On days when a robotics competition or practice is scheduled and school is in session, it is mandatory for the robotics student to be in attendance. "Skipping" class or being unexcused on a competition day will disqualify the student from participation. Excessive skipping may result in an extended suspension from robotics.
To be eligible to practice or participate in a competition when ill from school, a robotics student must be in attendance for the final three hours of the school day. If a student has an appointment that prevents them from being in attendance for the final three hours, the absence must be cleared ahead of time with the coach.
Whenever a violation of the rules is suspected, a school administrator and the coach will conduct an investigation. The robotics student will be notified of the charges and given an opportunity to discuss the matter. If an offense is determined to have occurred, the coach and administrator will assess the penalty. Parents will be notified within two (2) days after the penalty is imposed.
While participation in robotics is a privilege, a process of appeal is available when a robotics student believes that an unfair decision has been made regarding a violation of the athletic code. The following steps outline the appeal process:
Appeal the decision to the Robotics Coordinator and the student's Principal within four (4) calendar days of receiving the penalty.
If unsatisfied with the response from the principal, a second appeal may be made to the superintendent of schools within four (4) calendar days of the principal's response.
If still unsatisfied, a final appeal may be made to the St. Joseph Board of Education. Requests for final appeal must be made within four (4) calendar days of the superintendent's response. The decision of the Board will be final.
Failure to appeal within the specified time limits will waive any further appeal. The purpose of the appeal process is to provide the parties involved with a full disclosure of the facts and an opportunity to discuss the issues. All meetings will be informal and attended only by those immediately affected.
The Code of Conduct sets minimum standards of responsibilities for all robotics students at St. Joseph Public Schools, and coaches have the authority to establish additional rules and standards for the team.
According to the FIRST Mentor and Coach Resource Connection, a mentor/coach:
Must be at least 19 years old (or 18 with a waiver from the Robotics Coordinator).
It is recommended for Average Joes Alumni to take a year off from FRC before becoming a mentor.
Brings technical or non-technical expertise to the team.
Provides opportunities for students to learn through hands-on experiences.
Transitions from a teacher role to a colleague role.
Understands that mentoring and coaching are about inspiring and guiding.
Creates an environment for student success.
Demonstrates patience, support, enthusiasm, compassion, and availability.
Prioritizes the well-being and development of the students.
Register with US FIRST
Pass the US FIRST Mentor Background Check
Fill out and submit the yearly volunteer background check for SJPS
Manage the team’s timeline and ensure team efforts are going in the correct direction.
Be in attendance almost all of the time to support the team.
Attend competitions to support the team.
Provide updates/communicate regularly with the Robotics Coordinator.
FRC team members can mentor younger teams. To be a Student Mentor, a student must:
Be a current member of the FRC team.
Obtain approval from the coaches to participate in mentoring.
Report to the leadership of the team they are mentoring.
Be receptive to feedback and actively strive to improve as a mentor.
Have a two-year gap from the program they are mentoring, with exceptions possible upon approval from the Robotics Coordinator.
Not mentor a team in which their sibling is a member.
Competition chaperones are not registered with FIRST or the SJHS Robotics Program but are responsible for a small group of students (typically 4-5). Chaperones have specific responsibilities, including:
Being available for contact by students and other adults via cell phone at all times.
Communicating messages from the team coach to their group of students.
Managing and tracking the spending of meal money allotted to their group of students (if applicable).
Taking attendance of their students before leaving the competition, hotel, or other locations.
Chaperones must be the parent of a registered robotics team member and must be approved by the school.
HP and AP (Hour Points and Action Points) are an integral part of our robotics program at St. Joe Robotics. These points are designed to recognize and encourage student engagement, commitment, and growth throughout the season. Each program has different hour requirements, and it is important for students to record their hours accurately to earn these points.
Action Points are earned by actively participating in team meetings, events, and activities.
Each program has specific AP requirements, which may vary depending on the team's goals and objectives.
Students are expected to be present and engaged during team meetings, workshops, training sessions, outreach events, and competitions to earn AP.
Attendance will be tracked, and students should ensure their presence is recorded for each meeting or event.
Hour Points are earned by investing time in robotics-related activities outside of team meetings.
Each program has designated HP requirements that students must fulfill.
These activities may include research, brainstorming, programming, building, design work, outreach projects, community service, or other team-related tasks.
Students are responsible for accurately recording their hours in the provided format or system.
It is essential for students to accurately record their hours for AP and HP
A designated system through RFID tags is designated for students to use to track hours
Students are responsible for accurate hour recording
It is the student's responsibility to keep track of their hours earned and seek guidance from mentors or team leaders if any questions arise, or if hour requirements cannot be met.
If hours are not recorded, it is the student's responsibility to contact a Coach and request a time amendment. Continuous requests may not be honored.
Please note that specific hour requirements for AP and HP will be communicated to you at the beginning of the season. Regularly recording and fulfilling these requirements will not only help you track your progress but also contribute to your personal development as a member of St. Joe Robotics.
There are no requirements for an Honorary Joe. These students are welcome to attend as they are able and support how they can.
Attend Kickoff/Complete Kickoff Makeups
Pay $100 Participation Fee
Complete signup in FIRSTInspires
25 HP in January
25 HP in February
Working toward 25 AP
2.5 GPA, No late assignments
Attend Kickoff/Complete Kickoff Makeups
Pay $100 Participation Fee
Complete signup in FIRSTInspires
25 HP in January
25 HP in February
25 AP between June 1 and May 31
Attend 50% of competitions the team qualifies for
Each varsity award recipient will receive one seven (7) inch letter “S” award and chevron. After the athlete has received this award, each additional varsity award will be given in the form of a chevron with a sport symbol inserted.
This award is in the form of a “V” with a symbol of the sport inserted at the base. The chevron award is to be worn on the left sleeve. No medals, stick pins, or ribbons may be worn on athletic jackets.
A student athlete may wear academic chevrons on the athletic jacket.
The athletic jacket may be worn with the varsity “S” after the athlete has been awarded a varsity letter. Names, numbers, athletic awards, etc. may be worn on the athletic jacket.
Available on request is "3620" in numbers for jackets. Will be given to students by coaches who know they are an active member and contribute above the minimum requirements of the team.
It is expected that the student will be present at all awards ceremonies (banquets) to receive honors, letters and/or chevrons.
As these awards represent accomplishment at St. Joseph High School, they should be displayed with pride and respect. If the award is abused by means of improper conduct or display, the award may be recalled.
St. Joseph High School does not provide any type of health or accident insurance for injuries incurred during participation in robotics. As a service to students and their families, the High School has available a student accident insurance plan at a very nominal cost. Application forms for the accident plan are available in the Athletic Office.