The Bellefontaine City Schools Robotics Boosters are asking the community to lend a hand as the district prepares to host a middle and high school robotics competition next month — an event designed to showcase student innovation while strengthening local connections to future engineers and problem-solvers.
The competition will be held Saturday, Feb. 21, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Bellefontaine Middle School, and organizers are seeking volunteers to serve as judges throughout the day. No robotics or technical background is required.
According to Bellefontaine Elementary School Asst. Principal Jordan Reser, who coaches the district’s robotics teams, judges will work in small groups of two or three adults and spend just a few minutes with each student team.
“Judging is really about conversation,” Reser said. “Volunteers talk with students about their robot, their strategy, their programming, and how they handled challenges during the season. We’re evaluating professionalism, teamwork and how students explain their ideas — not technical expertise.”
Judging interviews typically last three to five minutes per team and focus on questions such as how the robot was built, how the team worked together, and what obstacles they encountered along the way. Volunteers may commit to part of the day or stay for the full event. Breakfast, lunch and an event T-shirt will be provided.
Organizers say the competition is about more than trophies.
“This program introduces students to engineering, construction and manufacturing concepts while helping them build confidence and communication skills,” Reser said. “It’s also a chance for community members to see firsthand what our students are capable of — and maybe even meet a future engineer or leader.”
In addition to volunteers, the BCS Robotics Boosters continue to seek community support and engagement to help sustain the program and expand opportunities for students.
Those interested in volunteering or learning more are encouraged to contact Reser by email at reserjo@bcs-k12.org.
The event is supported by the Bellefontaine robotics coaching staff and booster leadership, including Micah Woolf and Tamara Frazier, who say community involvement plays a vital role in the program’s success.
“Giving a few hours of your time can have a lasting impact,” Reser said. “These students remember who showed up for them.”
