Warren High School will hold a public demonstration of its award-winning robotics program Saturday, May 24, at 10 a.m. at Stay Gallery. The demonstration marks the official kick-off of Downey Art Vibe’s “Stay Young” initiative, in which the Downey Unified School District’s innovative programs will be showcased at Stay Gallery through the end of June.

Instructor Glenn Yamasaki and his students will be demonstrating their robots and practicing for a May 31 competition at Downey High. The machines will also be roaming around the downtown area during the farmers’ market.

“Our robotics program has evolved into an innovative approach to get DUSD students excited about the field of engineering and robotics,” said Yamasaki. “We are able to take interested students who have never touched a robot and transform them into regional, state and national champions.”

In addition to the demonstration, spectators will be able to drive various robots. The event is free and open to the public. Parents are encouraged to bring their children.

“The more we become ingrained with our community and Downey Unified School District, the more we realize that we need to develop programs that compliment our changing educational system,” said Valentin Flores, executive director of Downey Art Vibe. “With more emphasis on STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) at the forefront of the curriculum, we are partnering with DUSD administrators and teachers to integrate art and design into students’ education. We are currently development programs that will further the development of students in areas of teamwork, leadership, and presenting skills by emphasizing art and design. Mr. Yamasaki’s class embodies exactly the type of innovation and creative thinking our youth needs to be exposed to.”