PIE3 started with only one team, FRC Team 2199 the Robo-Lions, which began as a Liberty High School team. Team boosters established the 501(c)3 non-profit organization, and within a short time, other teams approached PIE3 for support. This support has changed slightly over the years, but the overview provided below is the current set of expectations that applies to PIE3 teams.
Coaches and Mentors are asked to review and acknowledge these expectations as part of signing a Memorandum of Agreement at the start of each season. Register as a Coach/Mentor Volunteer using the button.
Coaches and Mentors are asked to review and acknowledge these expectations as part of signing a Memorandum of Agreement at the start of each season. Register as a Coach/Mentor Volunteer using the button.
Download the form below or from the Coach/Mentor Volunteer Registration and email to Sharon Vandegriff ([email protected]). One form is required for each Coach or Mentor.
Adult Memorandum of Understanding
| pie3_team_mou_2024.pdf |
Overview of Expectations of Adult Coaches and Mentors
Team Formation
Team formation is based on information networking, schedule availability and shared interests. Coaches should facilitate the necessary communication to form a team.
Funding will vary depending on the status of the team and any pre-existing sponsorships (obtained for the team by PIE3).
Coaches must agree to provide a safe and healthy environment for all participants.
Team formation is based on information networking, schedule availability and shared interests. Coaches should facilitate the necessary communication to form a team.
- Coaches will work with parents and guardians to find a suitable meeting time and duration.
- Coaches are not required to host team meetings but are asked to find acceptable locations and coordinate access. Some teams meet in a private home or in other locations. If rent or other fees are necessary, teams will be responsible for raising funds in most cases.
- Team size can be determined by the coaches.
- A list of team members, coaches and assistant coaches must be provided to PIE3 to verify the signup list, see that MOUs are recorded properly and to support requirements of grants. Some demographic information may be requested, to be used anonymously and usually to apply for grants.
- Team members and their parents may be required to sign some agreements electronically, which may include PIE3 forms waiving liability, agreeing to COVID protocols, etc. In addition, parents will be asked to sign waivers for the use of photographs of their children at events either as a FIRST requirement or for PIE3 publicity. The completion of required forms and waivers are the sole responsibility of the coaches.
- A team photograph, preferably in team shirts and with names of all those in the photo, should be provided electronically for use in press releases and on the PIE3 website.
Funding will vary depending on the status of the team and any pre-existing sponsorships (obtained for the team by PIE3).
- All teams are required to collect dues, a portion of which will be used for administrative costs born by PIE3.
- All teams are expected to raise a portion of their funding, either from corporate or school sponsorship, donations obtained locally, or fundraisers. The amount will vary depending on the pre-existing sponsorships, number of members and level of dues paid.
- PIE3 provides access to some laptops. Teams must either borrow one of these or raise funds for a computer to run the robot software.
- Veteran teams (those with returning members AND coaches) are expected to raise more of their own funding. Rookie teams may be able to apply for additional grants.
- Coaches should submit legible receipts for expenses incurred within a reasonable timeframe, and not later than June 30 for the previous season. Funds not claimed remain in the account for the team for the following year or may be used for general expenses.
- There may be a deposit required for the loan of equipment. This will vary depending on the materials and availability of equipment.
Coaches must agree to provide a safe and healthy environment for all participants.
- Teams must have a minimum of two adult coaches and may have unlimited assistant coaches. All team meetings and activities must be supervised by at least two adults who have been identified by the main coaches and who have signed and MOU and completed required FIRST Training and screening.
- Coaches and assistant coaches must agree to abide by all FIRST and PIE3 requirements for youth programs.
- Coaches must meet the requirements of the FIRST Youth Protection Program (YPP). All adult volunteers should complete the YPP Training.
How PIE3 Supports Teams
PIE3’s mission is to provide opportunities throughout the Central Maryland region, and in particular southern Carroll County, for involvement in robotics programs. Funds are generally raised by the high school teams supported by PIE3. These funds, access to veteran coaches and experienced teen mentors, financial management, practical training and support to coaches are the major contributions our organization provides to you. Here are a few specifics:
All of the Board Members and other supporters of PIE3 are volunteers. We welcome new coaches and mentors, and encourage all to contribute to the mission.
- While there is a limited amount of direct funding available, PIE3 has long-standing relationships with corporations willing to grant funds to teams. Due to our reputation for successful programs, we may be able to help arrange grants to new teams each year while keeping most of our veterans funded.
- Having a connection to local teams is a valuable resource, and that includes the high school teams. PIE3 is a networking opportunity, and coaches are encouraged to connect with each other, rookie and veteran alike, to enhance the experience for all.
- Training is available from FIRST at a cost. Individual coach training, advice and support is available throughout the season at no charge when provided by PIE3.
- PIE3 carries insurance for loss and damage to equipment in our two locations, as well as Directors and Officers Liability. All coaches and volunteers registered with PIE3 as official volunteers who adhere to the requirements are considered covered by this insurance, if they have submitted a signed MOU and registered as a coach/mentor. The registration includes a waiver.
- A website is maintained by PIE3. This tool can be used by teams to set up a webpage and to manage fundraising campaigns.
- TeamSnap is a communication and coordination tool available for teams, currently used by a few teams and the Board of Directors as a way to connect coaches and other volunteers managing teams. Future plans include the use of Google for Non-Profits to expand access to calendars, file sharing, virtual meeting options and more.
All of the Board Members and other supporters of PIE3 are volunteers. We welcome new coaches and mentors, and encourage all to contribute to the mission.
Sample Code of Conduct for Parents and Team Members
Teams will use these samples to communicate and document expectations of Adults and Student Team Members. This example is from a former PIE3 Team.
Teams will use these samples to communicate and document expectations of Adults and Student Team Members. This example is from a former PIE3 Team.