TESTIMONIALS

" At the start of each New Year, city leaders accept the oath of office to service Leominster residents for the upcoming year. The highlight of the 2007 ceremony was clearly the Samoset Robotics Team. The team was presented a proclamation which was delivered on stage by one of the Samoset Robots. Without any doubt, I have to admit it was a thrill to see the expressions on the audience's faces when the robots entered the stage accompanied by the students of Samoset School dressed in white lab coats.

"If we as a community, state and country are going to compete in a global knowledge based economy, it will be these very programs that allow us a seat. The students with solid support from the school, local businesses and parents have a great time while learning new skills, building confidence and thinking critical."

Dean Mazzarella
Mayor, City of Leominster

"I could not be prouder of the work that Samoset students, with the great support of parents, have done in the first year of the Samoset Robotics Club. These students are using engineering skills, problem solving skills, research skills, presentation skills and team building skills to demonstrate their abilities in robotics and they are having a great time doing it. Already, in the first year of the program, students have won several awards for their fine work. This is a program that, with the continued support of parents and the community, will continue to grow and intrigue many students to think seriously about the fun and excitement of science and technology. Congratulations to all who participated for a fine first year."

Dr. Nadine Binkley
Superintendent Leominster Public Schools

"The First Lego Robotics program at Samoset School represents some of the best kind of work and engagement for young adolescents; it encourages them to think and act as scientists and engineers do to solve complex problems; it involves the formation of a community of learners who work together to achieve a common goal; and it provides students with the opportunity to work collaboratively with adults who have expertise and willingly mentor and support the growth of wonderful ideas in children. This program is a great gift to the students who participate and to our school community. I am beholden to the many parents, families, and students whose efforts established Lego Robotics at Samoset. Our school is richer today due to your dedicated work."
Elizabeth Schaper
Principal, Samoset Middle School

"I was astounded at the level of enthusiasm not only of the participants but of the parents, friends and relatives who supported them. The ratio of participants to supporters was almost one to one, a much lower ratio than at other youth sporting events; to me this indicated the interest and support of parents and relatives, a huge factor in the well-being of today's youth. The judges of the competition were almost all dedicated teen-agers and young adults, another indication of great support for the younger set from their older peers. Non-participants of the actual competition even had their own cheer-leading squads; the first time I have seen cheer-leaders in action for an event other than a sporting event. The competition was extremely well organized; participants were not confused and were able to learn how to perform under pressure without appearing to feel inadequate if they missed a point here or there."

Kurt Benedict, Structural Engineer
Grandparent

09/07/08