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10/29/2014 12:00 AMAT&T Connecticut announced a $10,000 donation to Apple Pi Robotics, a FIRST Robotics Team made up of high school students from Guilford and surrounding communities, for the purpose of improving their educational program offerings.
"My thanks to AT&T for supporting Apple Pi Robotics! This is a great program which promotes our young people's interest in science, engineering, and problem solving. The skills they learn will serve them well in future endeavors!" stated State Rep. Pat Widlitz, who was on hand for the announcement.
Apple Pi Robotics, with members who are primarily from Guilford High School, but also from Madison and Branford, is working to make the connection between the academic lessons of a high school curriculum and the world of an engineering-based business. Students are presented with the real-world challenges dealing with time, budget, and resource constraints.
The mission of FIRST Robotics is to inspire young people to become science and technology leaders by engaging them in exciting, mentor-based programs that build science, engineering, and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership.
The organization is particularly focused on engaging young girls from the local community and providing events to introduce young girls to the concept of STEM through community outreach.
"This donation will help us further our mission and give more participants the tools that they will need to succeed in life and their careers," stated John Zachos, a mentor and president of FIRST Robotics. "AT&T Connecticut's contribution is great news for our students, and we certainly appreciate their generosity."
"AT&T is committed to helping better prepare individuals for success in the workplace and careers," stated AT&T Connecticut External Affairs Regional Director Kelly Wade Bettuchi. "FIRST Apple Pi Robotics is precisely the type of organization that we look to support, and we're proud to play a role in its development and success."
The student group uses classroom space at Guilford High School.