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[TD="class: mcnTextContent"] ****JANUARY 2018 TEAM UPDATE**
Welcome Back**
As we kick off 2018, we're excited for a new year and a new look! Catch up with us and don't miss a minute of news we have for all our teams. Please share news of your exciting VEX IQ Challenge Ringmaster and VEX Robotics Competition In The Zone events with us on social media and tag the REC Foundation in your post! Stay current on all the latest news and updates at <a href="https://www.robotevents.com/">RobotEvents.com</a> and <a href="https://www.roboticseducation.org/">RoboticsEducation.org</a>.
**Volunteer at VEX Worlds 2018**
Join us as a volunteer for VEX Worlds April 25 - May 1, 2018 in Louisville, Kentucky and be part of the culminating event of the season. Most volunteer roles don't require previous experience, and we'll provide online training resources ahead of time.
**We are currently in most need of experienced Referees and Tournament Manager Operators. Teams are the best sources for these roles. Help us make this the best year ever!**
Our self-scheduling online platform makes it easy to select and view volunteer shifts from your computer or mobile device.
<a href="https://www.roboticseducation.org/volunteers/vex-worlds-volunteers/">VOLUNTEER</a>
**Apply for Scholarships**
The REC Foundation has well over $4.5 million dollars available in scholarship aid and we encourage students to visit our page today to learn more about these great opportunities. Application deadlines for the following scholarships are fast approaching: Ronald McDonald House, Wheaton College, and Robomatter.
<a href="https://www.roboticseducation.org/competition-teams/scholarships/">READ MORE</a>
**Mentor and Teacher of the Year Award Nominations**
Nominations for Mentor and Teacher of the Year Awards will be available at <a href="http://robotevents.com/vexawards/">robotevents.com/vexawards/</a> starting on February 1, 2018 until March 20, 2018.
**Mentor of the Year Award**
Given to a mentor or engineer that has helped students achieve goals that were seemingly out of reach. This individual is a role model, a leader and an extraordinary mentor who helps show students new ways to expand their knowledge and solve problems in the worlds of STEM.
**Teacher of the Year Award**
Presented to a teacher who shows true leadership and dedication to his or her group of students. The winner of this award continually exceeds expectations to ensure a safe, enjoyable and educational experience for all students.