The Ethicon/Bound Brook H.S. partnership began with FIRST Robotics ten years ago and was originally designed to be temporary. Ethicon's initial intention was to start additional teams. However, the focus became quality, not quantity and we developed a synergy that has remained incredibly strong throughout our ten year friendship. To date, Ethicon has provided over $200,000 in scholarship funds and helped BBHS with numerous enhancements both in and out of the classroom.
Team 56 was the first Johnson and Johnson team and the first team in New Jersey. We were instrumental in establishing the Mid-Atlantic Regional after staging a demonstration at the Liberty Science Center. This helped bring Johnson and Johnson support into the program. We also worked with three other teams to stage a match at Drexel University, a move that resulted in the formation of the Philadelphia Regional. Eleven years later, Team 56 continues to strive to promote science and technology.
Team 56 begins early in the school year with team-building activities, design challenges and community services to encourage communication between new members. During the six week build period, we meet at least three times a week and each meeting; students update each other as to what their sub teams achieved that day. After competitions, students continue with community services and participate in local post season competitions. Keeping active keeps the students interested and rentention high.
Team 56 has successfully expanded beyond the robotics program. Its involvement within the school includes: Project Lead the Way, Middle School Robotics, Bridge to Employment and the introduction of several engineering classes into the mainstream curriculum. Team 56 actively engages in ’giving back’ by volunteering community services such as raking for senior citizens, raising donations for the Salvation Army, computer training for community members and raising donations in times of need.
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