Sleepy Hollow High School Launches New Robotics Club

Sleepy Hollow High School has launched a new Robotics Club, giving students the opportunity to explore engineering, teamwork, and problem-solving through hands-on learning. Known as the Tarrybots, the club is preparing to compete in the prestigious FIRST® Robotics Competition. This global program challenges high school students to work collaboratively to design, build, and program industrial-size robots.

Through their participation, students gain practical experience applying STEAM concepts in real-world settings while developing teamwork, leadership, critical-thinking, and workforce skills. The program also connects students with professional mentors and sponsors and offers access to more than $80 million in scholarships and career exploration opportunities through FIRST.

The Robotics Club is supported this year through two grants—the Argosy FGI (Field Growth Incentive) and a NASA Program Growth Grant through the Robotics Alliance Project—totaling more than $13,000. The 2025 season officially kicked off on Saturday, January 10, with the release of the REBUILT™ game challenge, which set the stage for this year’s competition.

“The Tarrybots Robotics Club gives students an opportunity to apply what they’re learning in the classroom to meaningful, real-world challenges,” said Sharon O’Grady, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction. “Through hands-on problem-solving and collaboration, students are developing skills that support their academic growth and help prepare them for future pathways.”

Over the next two months, students will meet weekly on Thursdays to design and build their robot in preparation for the Hudson Valley Regional competition at Rockland Community College, scheduled for March 18–21. The Tarrybots will compete alongside 47 teams from across the state, the country, and around the globe.

The club is coached by Sleepy Hollow High School teacher Nicole Opitz and community member Brian Dockery and currently includes ten student members. The launch of the Robotics Club reflects the district’s continued commitment to providing engaging, hands-on learning experiences that encourage curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.