Robotics Program at Jo Lane Middle School Inspires Creativity, Teamwork, and Growth

At Jo Lane Middle School, robotics has become more than an elective. It is a space where curiosity turns into action and students are encouraged to explore, create, and grow at their own pace. Guided by instructor Steve Kiepert, the program centers on project based learning that gives students both the tools and the independence to bring their ideas to life. As Kiepert shared, robotics gives students the room to think creatively and turn concepts into something tangible, with motivation often being the only limit.

Students are involved in every step of the design process, from brainstorming to building and testing. They compete with teams from across the region while using industry inspired tools and methods. Their work includes additive and subtractive manufacturing, such as 3D printing and CNC machining, supported by a makerspace that allows them to produce custom parts when needed. After years of fundraising, the program recently introduced a galvo fiber laser, expanding opportunities for students to gain hands on experience with technology that is increasingly common in modern manufacturing and engineering.

That preparation was put into practice during the December 13 FIRST Tech Challenge competition. Jo Lane students joined peers from schools throughout the region for a day that called for teamwork, adaptability, and creative problem solving. Student Dante Johnston reflected on the supportive atmosphere, saying the best part of the event was how every team was willing to help one another succeed.

For student Emerie Luster, the experience highlighted the realities of collaboration. She noted that teamwork can sometimes be messy, but those moments are an important part of learning and growing together. Outreach also plays a meaningful role for the team. Students mentor younger FIRST LEGO League participants at the school, helping them build confidence and skills that will carry into future competitions.

Challenges along the way have helped students develop resilience. Mathew Coutts described the competition as intense but rewarding, sharing that even when their robot faced difficulties, the team worked together to recover. Bentley Newman emphasized that success is not measured only by match results. While their team won one of five matches, he felt the overall experience was both meaningful and enriching.

The program’s momentum continued at a more recent event, where one of Jo Lane’s FIRST LEGO League teams, led by Brian Shimer, advanced to the state competition after earning top honors at their regional tournament. Competing against 60 of Oregon’s strongest teams, they placed 46th overall, gaining valuable experience while representing their school community.

Looking ahead, students and mentors are preparing for future changes as FIRST Tech Challenge introduces new control and power systems beginning in the 2027 to 2028 season. These updates will require adjustments to equipment and resources, but the commitment to providing meaningful learning opportunities remains strong.

At its heart, Jo Lane Robotics is about opening doors. Through engineering, teamwork, and creative problem solving, students gain skills that can shape their future paths in technology and beyond. It is a program built on encouragement, collaboration, and a shared belief in what young people can accomplish when they are given the chance to explore and create.