Kennedy High School Robotics Club teams have been competing in virtual drone challenges.

VRAD, the Virtual REC Foundation Aerial Drones Program, partnered with Robotify to create the world’s first global multiplayer virtual aerial drone competition where registered high school robotics teams have the ability to compete from anywhere in the world. By combining the educational value of computer science with the excitement of Esports, VRAD focuses on real-world programming skills and gaming strategy.

“The Robotics Club has 12 VRAD teams participating in this innovative STEM challenge,” explained Rob Soel, district science/STEM chairperson. “Although in-person robotics competitions are not possible during the COVID-19 pandemic, our teams have been highly motivated to collaborate virtually and take part in the VRAD competitions after school hours and on weekends.”

Since their first competition on Jan. 16, many of the teams have participated in four rounds, one advancing to 17th place out of hundreds of National teams on the Roboduel platform.

“Through competitive design and game-based learning, our students have learned how to design and code the virtual drones for user controlled and autonomous flights,” added adviser Deanna Ocampo. “The teams will continue to join online matches and hopefully advance to the VRAD championships in early April. We are so proud of their resilience and ongoing accomplishments in robotics.”