Calvary Baptist Academy Robotics Program
Calvary Baptist Academy proudly offers the full spectrum of FIRST® Robotics programs, giving students from kindergarten through high school age-appropriate, hands‑on opportunities to grow in technical skill, teamwork, leadership, creativity, and Christ‑centered character. Through robotics, our students learn to solve real‑world problems, collaborate with peers, and discover passions that often shape their future careers.
Throughout our program’s history, CBA robotics teams have built a strong record in competitions across Michigan and beyond, earning invitations to high-level events, including the FIRST in Michigan District Championship and FIRST World Championship competitions. In 2026, high school team captain Julia Fisk was one of ten winners of the prestigious FIRST Leadership Award, which recognizes the dedication and individual contributions of outstanding secondary school students.
Join Us—No Experience Needed
The competition’s theme for the 2026-27 season will be FIRST CANOPY™ – find out more on the FIRST Robotics website. We invite all CBA students to consider joining our robotics program for the 2026–2027 school year. Whether your child is brand‑new to robotics or already tinkering with technology at home, there is a place for them on the team if they are willing to learn, collaborate, and commit to the team!
Please register using the CBA Robotics Registration Form so we can plan team placements and meeting schedules. Program details and deadlines are listed below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: My child has no experience with robotics. Can they still participate?
A: Absolutely! FIRST is designed to welcome beginners, and our coaches and experienced students love helping students discover new skills. Enthusiasm is far more important than prior experience!
Q: What do students actually do in robotics? Is it just building LEGO® models or driving robots?
Not at all. Building with LEGO is only a small part of the elementary program, and driving the robot is just the final step in the upper levels. Throughout the season, students will:
- Brainstorm solutions related to the annual challenge
- Design and build robots and subsystems
- Program robot movement and automation
- Practice teamwork, communication, and leadership
While students can focus on their primary area of interest, all students should be ready and willing to help where the team needs them most!
A: Teams have to meet after school, in the evenings, and/or on Saturdays because our coaches and other volunteers also have work, school, and family commitments. Consequently, while we do our best to accommodate families’ preferences, the best way to help secure your preferred meeting time is to volunteer to help with the team.
Q: I’d like to help, but I have no robotics experience. What can I do?
A: You can do a lot! No experience is required. Volunteers without technical expertise can help coaches by supervising students, assisting with organization, and supporting the team environment. If you’re willing to encourage students and help maintain a safe, positive environment, please volunteer as often as you can!
A: The time commitment varies with the program and progress through the season: the various Lego League teams may only require a couple of hours per week, while the high school FRC team typically meets at least three times a week for 2+ hours per meeting, and frequently more often as the season progresses, while also competing in at least two multi-day events that may include out of town travel.
A: Your child will gain technical ability, creativity, and personal growth through FIRST robotics. Students learn how to design, build, and program robots while developing real engineering habits—planning, testing, and problem‑solving. Beyond STEM skills, FIRST helps students grow as communicators and leaders. They present their ideas to judges, work closely with teammates, and learn how to manage projects and deadlines. FIRST robotics equips students with the mindset and skills that prepare them not only for future STEM careers, but for success in any path they choose.
A: As a parent, you can make a big impact on the robotics program by consistently supporting your child’s commitment: help them stay organized, encourage perseverance, and celebrate their progress. Families can also assist by providing transportation to practices and competitions, donating snacks for long build sessions, helping with fundraising efforts, or connecting the team with potential sponsors or community partners. Even showing up at competitions to cheer for the students strengthens team spirit and helps create an environment where students feel valued and motivated.
A: All teams follow safety guidelines that teach students how to work responsibly with tools, technology, and each other. Whether students are building with LEGO, programming, or using hand and power tools at the upper levels, they are always supervised by coaches and adults who ensure a safe, structured environment. Students learn safe habits that carry into future STEM experiences—how to handle equipment properly, how to communicate clearly in a team setting, and how to maintain a respectful, organized workspace.
Q: Where can I learn more about FIRST?