Students' educational opportunities should not be limited by outdated district policies. By lifting the ban on international travel, we can empower students to access the highest levels of global education.

     FIRST, a not-for-profit organization, empowers students to tackle real-world challenges through STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) while helping them find the meaning of core values such as discovery, innovation, impact, teamwork, inclusion, and fun.

     Pair of Dice Robotics from Southeast CTA was founded to engage students in STEM through the exciting world of robotics. Our team’s mission is to create excitement about STEM education in our school and in our community, and to leave a positive and lasting impact. Throughout our FIRST journey, we have empowered and inspired students to grow as engineers, volunteers, and leaders.

     Our students have made a meaningful impact on our community through clothing and food drives and have helped raise funds to support international causes, such as relief efforts for the Brazilian floods last summer. Our students have worked hard to make sure that everyone has equal access to STEM through our children’s book Space Whiskers, a GIRLS in Tech program that gives people of all genders an equal opportunity in STEM, and Jumpstart STEM initiatives that introduce children to the world of robotics. Our mentors also created an advanced manufacturing program recognized by industry professionals, allowing our students to earn 23 industry certifications.

     Our students also have experience with international teams. Every year, we host teams from around the world and allow them to use our facilities to promote international cooperation. Our students have felt the cultural benefits of this exchange through the gathering of new ideas and perspectives that have helped shape our team.

     Last year, our team had an opportunity to travel to Canada to participate in the Vancouver regional FRC (FIRST Robotics Challenge) competition. While this would have been a fantastic educational experience for everybody involved with our team, we were unfortunately barred from participating due to this policy.

     Backed by the support of dozens of sponsors, mentors, and industry professionals—including John Deere, HAAS, Wells Industries, Clearwater Paper, and many more—our team is prepared to represent Southeast CTA and CCSD on a global scale. This support, along with the students’ hard work, should be honored by allowing these types of opportunities to proceed.

     By allowing students to travel internationally, we can empower them to partake in the highest levels of global education. Help us lift the ban — sign the petition today.