Seven fourth-grade teams from the four elementary schools in the Ladue School District recently participated in the FIRST LEGO League Competition at Spoede Elementary. 

Students were tasked with researching and creating solutions for a real-world global problem related to the Ocean. They were also required to code and program Spike Prime robots provided by the Ladue Education Foundation to solve complicated missions related to their topic.

The competition was organized by Beth Knoot, Lindsay Lombardo, Tammy MacLean, and Lisa Schreiner, elementary gifted specialists at Reed Elementary, Conway Elementary, Old Bonhomme Elementary, and Spoede Elementary, respectively. 

“Our students gained valuable skills and knowledge by exploring this year’s ‘Submerged’ theme,” Schreiner explained. “Students enhanced their knowledge of marine science and the challenges facing our oceans and cultivated invaluable teamwork, critical thinking, and communication skills. We are proud of our students' collaborative spirit and creative ideas brought to this challenge.”

High school students and teachers from across the district volunteered as judges. The competition was a fun learning experience for everyone involved. 

An essential aspect of FIRST LEGO League is implementing the Core Values of respectful interaction, shared experience, and critical thinking. These Core Values include Discovery, Innovation, Impact, Inclusion, Teamwork, and Fun. 

Thank you to the Ladue community for their support, and congratulations to all our students and sponsors for their innovation, creativity, and hard work.