Robotics

The YCDS Engineering and Robotics program begins in PreSchool as our youngest students engage in project-based, hands-on exploratory learning.  All students learn the Engineering Design Process: Ask, Imagine, Plan, Create, Test, Improve, and Retest that frames the process and structure of their coursework. In addition to formal class instruction, all students, beginning in Kindergarten, are invited and encouraged to participate in one of the many YCDS FIRST Robotics teams.  

Students engage in the Engineering Design Process to develop engineering habits of mind recognized by the National Academy of Engineering as a vital 21st Century skill.  

Projects in the engineering and robotics curriculum complement our already rigorous curriculum. Upper School students are able to take CS100, Computer Science Practice and Design Studio, in the School of Engineering at York College. This course covers network configuration, installation of operating systems, and basic programming.

Students engage with industry mentors and participate in site visits at high-tech manufacturing centers.  

Upper School students use industry standard CAD software to create and 3D print their designs.

Robotics and Engineering summer programs such as Discover Devices and Doodads, EV3 Mindstorms, and Exploring Robotics Using Vex Robots, allow students to enhance and accelerate their learning.  

YCDS has three FIRST Robotics teams, including FIRST Lego League Jr., FIRST Lego League, and FIRST Tech Challenge. YCDS hosts an annual FIRST Lego League scrimmage and the FIRST Tech Challenge State Kickoff Event.

Our students compete locally, regional, nationally, and internationally.  The FIRST Lego League team, the GearHounds, has earned several awards, and attended FIRST World Championships in Detroit. Our teams are regular finalists in regional competitions.