Welcome to FRC 167 – Children of the Corn!

Good morning,

Welcome to FRC! We’re so excited to have you joining the team this year. Below is an introduction to our team and program, along with key details and action items to help you and your student get started.

About Our Team

FRC 167 Children of the Corn is part of the worldwide FIRST Robotics program. Unlike many activities, FRC gives students ownership of the entire process—from designing and building a full-scale robot to programming, fundraising, and outreach. Throughout the year, they gain technical skills, leadership experience, and teamwork abilities that prepare them for college and careers. The program is student-led with mentor support and built on the values of teamwork, innovation, and inclusion.

• Intro Slides: Introduction to FRC

• Team Calendar: link

Key Contacts

Our four coaches are supported by volunteer mentors from STEM fields and the community. All are background-checked through FIRST.

• Michael Livermore – President

• Mike Pownell – Vice President

• Madison Livermore – Treasurer (cell: 319-431-6239)

• Chris Markovich – Secretary

• Best contact: info@iowacityrobotics.org or coaches@iowacityrobotics.org (both routed to all coaches)

Schedule & Commitments

In the fall, the team meets twice a week. During build season, we expand to longer and more frequent sessions. Students are not required to attend every meeting, but consistent participation is key for learning and competition eligibility.

• Fall: Mondays & Thursdays, 6–8 pm

• Build Season (Jan–Apr): Mondays & Thursdays 6-8pm, Saturdays 12–6 pm; Sundays TBD

Events & Competitions

We’ve requested regional competitions in Minnesota and Iowa for March (Wednesday–Saturday). More details will be shared at the January parent meeting. Students are not required to attend competitions; however they are an incredible learning experience, and financial aid is available.

• Approximate cost: ~$250 per regional per student (depends on fundraising, travel, and team size)

• Fundraising opportunities will be offered to families before competition season

Finances & Fundraising

There is no cost to be an active member in the lab. Our program runs on an ~$80,000 annual budget funded through grants, sponsors, and our Junior Bot summer camps. Families and companies are encouraged to support through sponsorships or donations.

Team Operations

Our lab is a safe, inclusive space shared with the Iowa City Community Theater. Students are expected to respect boundaries, support each other, and clean up after themselves. Please review the Code of Conduct with your student.

• 📄 Code of Conduct – sign and return

• Communication: Discord is the primary communication for students (parents may join and add “parent” role)

  • Discord: join here

• Periodic email updates will also be sent

Spirit & Team Culture

Our “Children of the Corn” name celebrates being Iowa’s first FRC team. Students proudly wear corn hats and themed apparel at competitions.

• Parent Fan Shop: Raygun Robotics Collection

• Team Competition Apparel: Order here

  • Students must have at least 1 green polo for competition

  • T-shirts or extra polos are strongly recommended for multi-day events

Parent Involvement

Parents play an important role in keeping our team running smoothly. From snacks and carpools to volunteering or connecting us with sponsors, we appreciate any level of involvement. For those interested in participating further, consider attending New Mentor Night.

• New Mentor Night: Sept 30 (open to all parents, technical or not!)

Clash in the Corn (Off-Season Event)

This is a fun way for students to experience competition before the official season. It uses last year’s game and robot but gives new drivers a chance to compete. Parents are also welcome to come and experience the competition.

• October 17–18, West Des Moines

• RSVP by Oct 10 via Discord poll

• Includes an overnight hotel stay (small student cost, transportation provided)

• More info: clashinthecorn.com

Additional Action Items (Must be Completed Each Year)

• Liability & Release Forms

• STIMS Registration

Thank you for taking the time to read through this information. We’re thrilled to welcome new students and families to FRC 167 and look forward to an exciting season ahead. Please reach out anytime with questions.

Thanks,

Madison Livermore

Iowa City Robotics