With the lack of funding for public education it can be difficult for school districts to fund all of its programs, including extra curriculars.

At Trumansburg Central School District, the case is no different. The Trumansburg Robotics Team, also known as Team 5254 HYPE (Helping Youth Pursue Excellence), is one of those examples.

It is an organization that supports the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) studies. Students can also receive scholarships through the robotics team.

Team HYPE is only four years old, but has already made a mark for the district. Last year members competed at the national level and were ranked 28 out of 3,140 teams.

Our programs mission is to show students that science, technology, problem solving and business development are not only fun and rewarding, but are proven paths to successful careers and a bright future for us all, wrote the Trumansburg High School Robotics Team in its donation letter for funding.

The team recently took part in the For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Robotics Finger Lakes Regional event, where it made the semi-finals.

The FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) is the 'Varsity Sport for the Mind,' combining the excitement of sports with the rigors of science and technology, said Brad Farnham, lead advisor. Opportunities for our students to gain experience in engineering and computer science are limited in our school district. Our robotics program helps bridge that gap. Students participating in FIRST Programs experience improved problem solving skills, time management skills, conflict resolution skills and strengthened communication skills. School engagement increases and nationally, almost 90 percent of FIRST Alumni are either studying or working in a STEM field. Plus FIRST participants also gain access to over $25 million in college scholarships.

From March 29-April 1 the team competed at the SBPLI Regional event hoping to earn a spot at the World Championships in St. Louis.

Team HYPE is funded completely by community support. They rely on company sponsorships, grants, donations and fundraisers in order to run.

Team HYPE will be hosting a Robo Jam on Saturday, Aug. 8 from 2-6 p.m. at the Trumansburg American Legion, 4431 East Seneca Rd. to help raise funds for the World Championships. The team needs to raise another $20,000 to attend the competition.

Robo Jam will feature live music from Stone Cold Miracle, Perry City 5, Maplewood Jazz Team, Ryan and Nico and Singledowt.

A silent auction will be taking place, with items donated by local businesses. There will also be a chicken barbecue dinner.

Pre-sale tickets are $10 and they are $12 at the door. Meals will also include Cornell or red marinade, salt potatoes, pasta ring salad and a roll.

To order tickets for the chicken barbecue ahead, email Andy@TrumansburgRobotics.org

There is no charge to attend the event, but donations will be accepted.

Donations for Team HYPE can also be made at gofundme.com/5254-team-hype.

For more information on Robo Jam call (607) 387-7801. For more information on Team HYPE visit frc5254.com.

More here:

Robotics Team Raising Funds for Competition - ithaca.com