Junior Idaho programmers compete from space station

Some middle school students living at NeighborWorks Boise's Gateway Crossing apartments in Nampa, Idaho, recently took part in an "out-of-this-world" learning experience.

The Idaho Afterschool Network partnered with NeighborWorks Boise by selecting Gateway Crossing as a site for the Zero Robotics ISS Programming Challenge. This five-week STEM (science, technology, engineering and medicine) program introduced students to computer programming, robotics, space engineering, hands-on science experiments and teamwork.

The Zero Robotics program gave students the opportunity to compete on a statewide basis. The students then participated live from the International Space Station (ISS) to compete against teams across the country, while being refereed by a NASA astronaut. During the program, students also had the rare opportunity to meet astronaut Steve Swanson. He shared his experiences in space, and helped students develop strategies for writing winning code.

The team at Gateway Crossing (known as the "Evolutionary Coders") achieved second place in the state competition. The members collaborated with the first-place team to write code to win the national competition that was broadcast live from NASA with help from the program's co-sponsor, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

The ISS final competition day gave the students the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the Engineering Department at Boise State University, enjoy various activities aboard the STEM Bus USA and ride on a Segway Human Transporter. These activities engaged their minds and encouraged them to pursue further STEM education opportunities. The program also influenced Resident Services Coordinator Danielle Falck, who now is eager to pursue additional STEM opportunities, grants and activities for the youth.

The Evolutionary Coders from Gateway Crossing are eager to continue their learning beyond the competition, and are excited to participate in the Zero Robotics game next year, with a dream of winning the national competition on their own.