FLHS TSA TEAMS Competes in STEM Competition

FLHS student members of TSA TEAMS (Technology Student Association, Tests of Engineering Aptitude Mathematics and Science) recently competed in an annual science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) competition that challenges high school student teams to work collaboratively to solve real-world engineering challenges, applying their math and science knowledge in practical, creative ways.

This year’s competition focused on the design and engineering of a large entertainment venue in a post-COVID-19 world. The students were given everyday materials such as paper, twine, poster board, paper clips, tape, foam board and rubber bands. 

This one-day, three-part competition includes:

  • Design/Build—Teams design and build a solution to an engineering challenge.
  • Multiple Choice—Teams use math and science skills to solve real-world engineering challenges.
  • Essay—Teams research and write an in-depth essay submitted electronically prior to their competition day. 

The FLHS advisor for TSA TEAMS said the competition is unique because it tests so many different types of skills.

“TSA TEAMS tests the student’s knowledge and ability in writing for the essay portion, mathematics and all of the sciences for the multiple choice, and design, teamwork, time management, and creativity for the design/build portion,” said Karen Rood, TSA TEAM Advisor and teacher of mathematics and computer science. Karen teaches Advance Placement Computer Science A, Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles and Robotics Honors.

For more information about TSA TEAMS, click here. The 2022 TEAMS competition takes place between February 11 and March 4, 2022. Teams of two to four students compete in person on competition day for state awards. The top twenty-five overall top-ranking teams are invited to compete for Best-in-Nation at the 2022 TSA National Conference. TEAMS is open to all interested middle school and high school students. Teams compete at one of two levels: middle school or high school.