Kansas homeschool robotics team celebrates Capitol honors, 25th anniversary

Inventing robots to help treat cardiovascular disease? Homeschooled students in Kansas have a heart – and a growing name – for doing just that.

Indeed, the Wichita Homeschool Robotics team received recognition from state Rep. Susan Humphries at the state Capitol in February for building a reputation of excellence over its 25-year history.

Its members have won first place at the state Boosting Engineering, Science & Technology (BEST) robotics meet the past five years. They’ve also placed first at the BEST regional contest in Denver three straight years.

“The fact we’re homeschooled gives us an advantage,” said Charlie Weddle, shop manager for the team. “We can spend 20 to 30 hours a week doing robotics. We also have parents who are willing to mentor us, so we don’t have to jump in blindly.”

Extensive preparations, requirements 

For state and regional meets in 2023, teams needed to build robots capable of simulating medical procedures such as artery plaque removal or vein bypasses – all useful for surgical treatment of cardiovascular patients. 

Homeschoolers met at a Wichita church basement to start planning for the season in August. After selecting officers and team leaders, the students planned their robot according to rules set by the organization. 

“You can’t exceed the amount of materials they give you,” said Seth Peniston, the team’s robot manager. “You get tested for compliance before the competition, and you’re disqualified if you have too much.” 

Building materials provided by BEST included electric motors, plastic tubing, bicycle tires, plywood and zip ties. Students must follow requirements while recording their handiwork for judges to inspect. 

“The engineering notebook is probably the most important part,” said Jeremiah Shlittenhardt, the team’s student president. 

As the high schoolers built their robot, they learned real-life skills such as marketing their product, fundraising through local company sponsorships, and building graphical presentations. 

“It’s as if a company was asking an engineering firm to submit proposals,” Shlittenhardt said. “We see what the requirements are and how we can meet those.” 

As a result of its labors, the team won trophies ranging from exceptional team spirit to best marketing presentation. 

“I’ve learned a lot,” said Jenna Shlittenhardt, marketing manager for the team. “I’ve learned new art techniques, how to communicate ideas, and how to get people motivated.” 

More STEM homeschool success stories 

The Wichita team showcases the growing list of homeschoolers interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) nationwide. 

In one recent example, the Bridges to Science (B2S) nonprofit is providing STEM resources to homeschool families in Houston, including those living in underserved communities. Participants have planned a STEM fiesta, developed programming skills, and created digital music compositions according to their specific interests. 

“I always tell my students: You all need to pay it forward and be ambassadors for learning,” said Rosa Aristy, the nonprofit’s founder and homeschool mom. “We’re getting there, and it’s exciting.”