Sportsmanship Philosophy

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.

To the Parents

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

To the Student

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. 

About FIRST Robotics

Mission

The mission of FIRST® is to inspire young people to become science and technology leaders and innovators. We engage students in mentor-based programs that build their skills in science, engineering, technology, and foster well-rounded capabilities, including self-confidence, communication, and leadership.

Vision

"To transform our culture by creating a world where science and technology are celebrated, and where young people dream of becoming science and technology leaders." - Dean Kamen, Founder of FIRST

Methodology

We engage students from PreK-12 (ages 4-18) in mentor-based programs, focusing on research and robotics. Our programs help students develop as science and technology leaders and well-rounded contributors to society. Through hands-on learning, teamwork, exposure to careers and mentors, and emphasis on FIRST Core Values, students gain essential skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and communication, preparing them for success in school and beyond.

About FIRST

FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a global robotics community that empowers young people through inclusive, team-based robotics programs. With programs available for ages 4-18 (PreK-12), FIRST operates in schools and structured afterschool programs. Supported by a network of volunteers, educators, and sponsors, including Fortune 500 companies, FIRST teams uphold a set of Core Values as they research, fundraise, design, build, and showcase their achievements during annual challenges.

History of FIRST

Founded in 1989, FIRST aims to inspire young people's interest and participation in science and technology. From its humble beginnings in a New Hampshire high-school gym with 28 teams, FIRST has grown to reach close to 250,000 young people. The annual FIRST Championship, held in Houston, brings together teams from around the world. Comprising five divisions (FRC, FTC, FLL Challenge, FLL Explore, FLL Discover), US FIRST continues to make significant strides in promoting STEM education and preparing future leaders.

Core Values

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®

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.

Coopertition®

Coopertition® leads to innovation. At FIRST, Coopertition entails displaying kindness and respect even in the face of fierce competition. It involves learning from and teaching teammates, as well as managing and being managed. Coopertition means competing while assisting and enabling others whenever possible, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.

About St. Joe Robotics

Welcome to St. Joe Robotics, the premier robotics program encompassing all FIRST programs offered for St. Joseph Public Schools students. Located in the state-of-the-art Edward J. Todd Innovation Center at St. Joseph High School, we are proud to be home to 32 teams ranging from Kindergarten to 12th Grade, with over 275 students involved for the 2022-2023 Season. At St. Joe Robotics, our mission goes beyond building robots. We provide students of all ages with an exciting journey that fosters the development of essential skills, embraces core values, and nurtures a lifelong love for science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). Through teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation, we empower our students to become well-rounded individuals who embody gracious professionalism, respect, and integrity. Join us at St. Joe Robotics and experience the transformative power of hands-on learning, collaboration, and the boundless possibilities of robotics in a supportive and inclusive environment. Our program's growth has been remarkable since its inception in 2010, starting with our high school FRC team, Average Joes. We have expanded to include 20 FLL Explore Teams, 8 FLL Challenge Teams, 3 FTC Teams, and our esteemed FRC Team for the 2022-2023 season. As a testament to our achievements, we are proud to have been awarded the million-dollar Edward J. Todd Innovation Center, our dedicated space where all our teams come together to innovate and excel.

Program Rules and Expectations

Eligibility Rules (FTC | FRC)

To participate in robotics at the middle school or high school level in St. Joseph Public Schools, students must comply with the following eligibility rules:

1. 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.

School of Choice (FLL | FTC | FRC)

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. 

Coaching, Mentoring, and Volunteering

Volunteers are the backbone of the FIRST program, accounting for 99% of the worldwide FIRST workforce. Without their support and mentorship, our team would not be able to thrive. Volunteers play diverse roles, both technical and non-technical, ranging from field setup to fundraising and serving as mentors. They contribute their expertise, time, and dedication to the success of our team and the overall FIRST program. It's important to note that volunteers do not necessarily need to have a child participating in the program; anyone with a passion for FIRST can get involved.

Volunteer 

• Engages in time-limited roles or activities with limited interaction with students.

• Examples include providing meals, chaperoning events or competitions, helping with field setup, or assisting in specific fundraising activities.

Code of Conduct

Personal Rules of Conduct for Robotics (FLL | FTC | FRC) 

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.

Robotics Code of Conduct

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.

SJR Code of Conduct

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.

Code of Conduct

1. Students shall not commit any theft of goods, equipment, or property belonging to the school or others.

2. Students shall not commit any vandalism.

3. Students shall not engage in any serious unethical conduct.

4. 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.

5. Students shall obey all laws of the community, state or otherwise, and shall not engage in illegal activities.

6. Students shall not create a threatening environment for any team member, coach or mentor.

7. Students shall treat all team members, coaches, mentors, and volunteers with respect and courtesy.

8. Students shall demonstrate punctuality and attend all necessary scheduled robotics events, meetings, and practices.

9. Students shall prioritize safety at all times, following proper safety protocols and guidelines during robot assembly, testing, and competition.

10. Students shall exhibit good sportsmanship and fairness, showing respect towards opposing teams and officials. (Coopertition)

11. Students shall contribute positively to the overall team dynamic and collaborate effectively with teammates.

12. 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.

Code of Conduct Penalty Violation

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.

Penalties

Taking Note

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.

Warning 

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.

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.

Second-Offense Penalty

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.

Third-Offense Penalty

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.

School Attendance

1. 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.

2. Robotics students are expected to set an example of responsibility. When school is in session the day following a robotics competition, the participating robotics student is expected to attend school.

3. 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.

4. 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 or the athletic director.

Procedures for Violations of School-Wide Athletic Rules

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.

Appeal Process

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:

1. Appeal the decision to the Robotics Coordinator and the student's Principal within four (4) calendar days of receiving the penalty.

2. 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.

3. 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.

Code of Conduct for Team Mentors, Coaches, Volunteers, Etc.

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.

Mentors/Coaches

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

Additional Coach-Specific Requirements

• 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 

FLL/FTC Student Mentor Requirements

FTC and FRC team members can mentor younger teams. To be a Student Mentor, a student must:

• Be a current member of the FRC or FTC 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

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.

Commitment Requirements

Attendance 

FLL Explore

Students are expected to attend all of the team meetings, with the exception of illness and other extenuating circumstances. Attendance at meetings is critical as each lesson build off of previous learned information. 

FLL Challenge

Students are expected to attend every meeting, with the exception of illness and other extenuating circumstances. Parents must communicate absence to the appropriate coaches. Missing even one meeting can negatively affect the student and team's success during the season due to the time constraint of the season and activities that need to be completed. 

HP, AP, and XP (FTC | FRC)

AP, HP, and XP (Action Points, Hour Points, and Experience 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 (FTC, FRC) has different hour requirements, and it is important for students to record their hours accurately to earn these points.

Action Points (AP):

• 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 (HP):

• 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.

Experience Points (XP):

• Experience Points are earned through active participation, leadership roles, and continuous skill development within the robotics program.

• XP recognizes students' growth, improvement, and contributions over time.

• Examples of earning XP include taking on leadership roles, mentoring new members, organizing team events, demonstrating technical expertise, or showing exceptional teamwork.

• XP requirements may vary across programs, reflecting the different levels of involvement and responsibility.

Recording Hours:

• It is essential for students to accurately record their hours for AP, HP, and XP.

• A designated system through Smartsheet will be provided for students to track and submit their hours.

• Students should record their hours promptly after each meeting or activity to ensure accuracy.

• It is the student's responsibility to keep track of their hours and seek guidance from mentors or team leaders if any questions arise, or if hour requirements cannot be met. 

Please note that specific hour requirements for AP, HP, and XP 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.

Athletic Awards (FRC)

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. 

Insurance

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.