Greetings Everyone:

We have thrilling news to share with you regarding the future of our robotics program.

Due to changes in financial regulations, the Bloomfield Hills School District can no longer manage our finances through its accounts. This alteration impacts all organizations affiliated with the School District that are not part of its administration or staff, such as: PTOs, the Bloomfield Foundation, Athletic Boosters, and Robotics. Some entities, like the Bloomfield Foundation and Athletic Boosters, already have nonprofit status, while others are initiating the process.

We have engaged in multiple discussions with existing organizations and other robotics programs across the state that have already made the transition. Additionally, we attended a seminar about transitioning robotics programs to nonprofit status, recognizing that more and more programs are adopting this approach.

We have established a new nonprofit organization known as "Bloomfield Hills Robotics." This organization will serve as the unifying body for all robotics-related activities within the Bloomfield Hills School District.

We are thrilled to announce that Bloomfield Hills Robotics is now fully operational, and we eagerly look forward to the possibilities and advancements it will bring to our robotics program. It is important to emphasize that our partnership with the School District remains unchanged, and our commitment to providing students with best-in-class robotics programming continues.

Impact of the 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Status on the Future:

● Efficient Fundraising: As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit entity, we will be able to secure sponsors and fundraise efficiently.

● Timely Financial Transactions: We will be able to conduct our financial transactions (reimbursements, payments, competitions registration) in a timely manner.

● Financial Audit: We will be required to perform an annual financial audit, which will protect us from any financial fraud.

● Continued Partnership: We are still partnered closely with the school district, and we will have access to the same facilities and have the same annual schedule.

● Insurance and Accounting: We will be required to have in place our own insurance and accounting.

● Bylaws Compliance: We will abide by our bylaws, which will be posted on our website at bloomfieldrobotics.com

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How the Changes Will Impact You:

● Administration Cost: The registration fee was increased slightly this year to cover the extra expenses related to insurance and 501(c)(3) registration. Please remember that our registration covers FIRST fees, and 100% of what’s left stays with the program and your team.

● Insurance: Once the season begins, you will be required to sign a liability form. In addition to the insurance that the School District carries, we are required to carry our own insurance as well; the liability form is a requirement from our own insurance provider.

● Student Safety: Students and parents must read and comply with the Student Conduct form. We take the safety of every student very seriously.

● Accounts Payable: Any reimbursement, registration, or checks for competition /registration will be processed through our organization, and it will be done efficiently. There will be no delays in financial transactions.

Bloomfield Hills Robotics followed "best practices" when establishing its bylaws, aligning them with the commonly adopted bylaws of other robotics non-profit organizations within the State of Michigan. A copy of our bylaws are available HERE. Additionally, the bylaws will soon be accessible on our website, which is currently undergoing updates to reflect our new status.

Our current Board Members are:

● Ravi Bhattiprolu

● Mihaela Cobb

● Elisabeth F. Garbeil

● Patty Murray

● Brynn Stevenson

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During our Annual Meeting, scheduled for the second quarter of each year starting in 2025, Board Members will be voted into office. This meeting is open to the public and will provide an overview of our goals, finances, and achievements. Once the details are finalized, we will distribute a "save the date" reminder and additional information.

Please know that we look forward to continually enhancing and expanding our program in the years to come. Should you have any inquiries or concerns regarding the transition, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at any time. We value your feedback and are dedicated to ensuring a smooth and seamless process for all involved. You can reach the Board Members via email at bloomfieldhillsroboticsboard@gmail.com.

Signed,

Mihaela Cobb and Brynn Stevenson

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P.S. Interested in volunteering on a Robotics Committee or Task Force? We have opportunities in Finance, Audit, Governance, Camp, and Special Events (like the Bloomfield Bash, the FTC Kickoff, and the Girls Competition). Or maybe you are interested in joining our Board? If so, please reach out to one of our Board Members directly.