Akwesasne Youth Go High Tech
Jul 31, 2013
Clarkson Brings Robotics to Summer Program
The Akwesasne Boys & Girls Club (ABGC)/Johnson O’Malley (JOM) summer program has recently teamed up with Clarkson University to promote a robotics program hosted at the St. Regis Mohawk School located in Akwesasne, N.Y.
This three day initiative is a collaborative effort for both programs. Tim Cook, ABGC/JOM Summer Coordinator, can see benefit to enrichment programs such as these. “This is great because it’s enrichment that we can’t always offer the kids.”
Working with children from the ages of seven to nine years of age may not always be the easiest, but the Clarkson students accept the challenge as they love to engage youth in math and science exercises. John Seaman, Clarkson University Mechanical Engineering student, notes the importance of early interest within the robotics program. “Students who learn in the engineering field tend to learn a lot about construction and problem solving. They are also learning ways to use computers skills for ways other than games. That is something college kids are currently doing,” states Seaman.
When asked what advice he would give to a child pursuing a career in science, Seaman states, “Get started. It’s a lot of fun so don’t hesitate. If you want to try and get involved, talk to your teachers or parents. There is so much out there.”
Other programs partnering with JOM this summer include Franklin County 4-H, Akwesasne Boys and Girls Club, Let’s Get Healthy Program, Mohawk Council of Akwesasne’s Wholistic Wellness, Cultural Programming with Title VII, Band Camp as well as hosting special appearances by community role models ranging from athletes to paramedics to fireman.
The JOM program is currently in their second year of operations after a three year hiatus and its popularity continues to grow. “This is providing a service during the summer for free essentially, that they wouldn’t normally have. The kids may not understand that they are learning because it is fun. It’s about enrichment,” concludes Mr. Cook.
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Tatum Cole - Robotics is Awesome
Norman Gray Jr. and Kawiranoroh Thompson - Battle of the Robots
Aayliah White - Hope this Works
Clarkson student and Ashleih Cook - Creating a Design
For more information contact the Public Information office at 518-358-2272.