By: The Dirt
Robotics clubs make learning about science, technology, engineering, and math fun, hands-on, and practical. In Davis, robotics clubs also focus on the development of teamwork and friendship building. And it pays off.
After two decades of STEM club training and workshops, Team 1678, Citrus Circuits—a Davis-based robotics team—hosted the first ever citywide youth robotics championship at the end of last school year, inviting 17 teams from nine Davis-area schools to compete.
“The goal of this tournament was to bring students together from across the community to share what they’ve learned, build friendships, and experience the power of collaboration,” Henry Marsom, DYR Elementary School Coordinator and DHS student, said. “We want robotics to be accessible, fun, and empowering for every student in Davis.”
The tournament was the culminating event of the Davis Youth Robotics After-School Program, where students in grades 4–8 designed and built robots capable of passing and launching balls into elevated goals under the guidance of Citrus Circuits team members.
“Our students have been building, testing, and collaborating since January,” Carolina Roberts, Robotics organizer at Davis Waldorf School, said back in June. “This tournament gave them the chance to apply what they’ve learned, work with new teammates, and experience the joy of creative problem-solving in real time.”
Behind each team was a dedicated coach—often a teacher or staff member volunteering their time outside of regular duties to guide students through months of hands-on learning.
In Davis, the DYR after school program has become a gateway into STEM learning for young students across the region. Organizers are already planning to expand both the after-school program and next year’s citywide tournament, which will feature the newly announced VEX IQ challenge, Mix and Match.
“Our teachers are the backbone of this program. They’re volunteering their time after long school days because they believe in what robotics can do for kids. As the program grows, finding ways to support them will be key to making sure every student in Davis has the chance to participate”, Citrus Circuits founder Steve Harvey said.
Students interested in robotics can join Davis Youth Robotics RoboCamps, leagues, and school-based programs.
Participating schools include:
- Davis School for Independent StudyÂ
- Davis Waldorf SchoolÂ
- North Davis ElementaryÂ
- Robert E. Willett ElementaryÂ
- Pioneer ElementaryÂ
- Patwin ElementaryÂ
- Birch Lane ElementaryÂ
- Fred T. Korematsu ElementaryÂ
- Marguerite Montgomery ElementaryÂ
- Cesar Chavez Elementary
- Holmes Junior High School
- Francis Harper Junior High School
To learn more, contact Lead Coach Kanwar Singh at ksingh@djusd.net or DYR Elementary School Coordinator Henry Marsom at dyrschools@citruscircuits.org.
