PNC is looking to host 20 students in the Chess Club.

GREENSBORO — Lake Oconee Academy entered its first-ever middle school robotics team, the Iron Titans, to compete in the first Lego League regional robotics competition on Saturday, Dec. 15. Students traveled to Middle Georgia State University in Macon to compete against eleven other teams from middle Georgia.

The robotics competition includes four categories: Robot Design, Robot Performance, Core Values, and a comprehensive Project. The Iron Titans were awarded first place in Robot Design and third place in the comprehensive Project.

“Robotics allows students to solve complex problems and learn new technology,” said LOA teacher Eric Harper. “The students don’t always see eye-to-eye so there is the opportunity to learn conflict resolution and develop leadership skills. At tournaments, the students get to showcase their work, interact in a positive way with other teams and judges, and compete with robots. It is truly a unique and invaluable experience.”

The team will advance to the Middle Georgia Super Regional in Warner Robins on Jan. 26. The Iron Titans are directed by LOA teachers Eric Harper and Xeuchao Jiang, and the team is sponsored by Novelis.