
‘Res Kids’ robotics team competes on world stage in Houston

Courtesy
The Baker Middle School Robotics Team, BMS Res Kids 23942, represented their school at the prestigious FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship in Houston.
By Robert Bettis
Navajo Times
KAYENTA
The Baker Middle School Robotics Team, known as BMS Res Kids 23942, is bringing pride to Kayenta for being the first known team from Navajo schools to compete at the prestigious FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship in Houston.

Courtesy
Students gather on the floor, collaborating on a hands-on robotics project that challenges their problem-solving skills and encourages teamwork
The young innovators, led by 13-year-old president Crystal Young and 14-year-old vice president Jace Begay, showcased their technical skills, represented Indigenous excellence in STEM, and connected with students and cultures from around the world.
Crystal Talker is Tódích’íi’nii born for Tó’áhání. Her cheii is Tsi’naajinii and her nálí is Zuni Edge Water. For Crystal, the journey has been years in the making. She joined the team in its rookie season back in 2023 and has since grown into a leadership role as the club’s programmer.
“We demonstrated the strength of Indigenous kids in STEM fields,” she said proudly. Her work involves coding commands that bring the team’s robot to life, allowing it to perform specific tasks during competitions. The robots are designed to complete challenges that test precision, problem-solving, and teamwork – whether stacking objects, hanging from bars, or navigating obstacles. The team also uses 3D printing to craft custom parts, blending creativity with engineering.
To read the full article, please see the June 19, 2025, edition of the Navajo Times.
Get instant access to this story by purchasing one of our many e-edition subscriptions HERE at our Navajo Times Store.