JACKSON TOWNSHIP, NJ — Four Jackson Township High School students who finished among the top 18 robotics teams in the country were recognized during Tuesday’s Township Council meeting.
Joseph “Joey” Orecchio, Deven Stab, Raymond Panariello and Aditi Gupta received a township proclamation honoring their performance at the Technology Student Association National Conference. All four students are members of the high school’s STEM Academy and TSA organization.
“These are the moments that make us incredibly proud as a community,” Interim Mayor Jennifer Kuhn said. “Joey, Deven, Ray, and Aditi have demonstrated what can happen when talent is combined with hard work, teamwork, determination, and a willingness to challenge yourself. They didn’t just represent their school—they represented all of Jackson Township on a national stage, and they did it exceptionally well.”
The team qualified for the national competition after placing second at the New Jersey TSA State Conference earlier this year.
More than 60 teams competed at the national conference, held June 22 through June 26 in National Harbor, Maryland.
Students were tasked with designing, building and programming a robot capable of navigating a course while collecting and delivering objects. The competition included a timed robot trial and an interview with a panel of judges.
Jackson’s team advanced to the national semifinals and finished among the top 18 teams.
Township officials also recognized TSA adviser Michelle Roach, who assumed leadership of the organization during the school year. Administrators, teachers and guidance counselors helped the students attend the conference, which coincided with final examinations and the last week of school.
“When we talk about Jackson’s future, these are the young people we are talking about,” Kuhn said. “They are innovative, motivated and already demonstrating tremendous leadership. As Mayor, one of the most rewarding parts of serving this community is having the opportunity to recognize students who are doing extraordinary things.”
The four students plan to return to competition during the upcoming school year.