About Metro Homeschool Robotics (MHR)



Who We Are


Metro Homeschool Robotics (MHR) is a Kansas City, MO based high school robotics team competing in the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) since 2006. We welcome homeschooled, private, and public school students (grades 9–12, ages 14–18).

Our mission is to provide students with hands-on experience in engineering, manufacturing, programming, leadership, and teamwork through the challenge of building a 120-lb competition robot each year.



What is FIRST Robotics?


FIRST Robotics is the “Varsity Sport for the Mind.” Each year, teams worldwide receive a brand-new game challenge and have just over six weeks to design, build, and program a robot. It’s more than robots - it’s about innovation, collaboration, and preparing students for future careers in STEM.



What the Season Looks Like


January - April: Competition Season


  • Kickoff (January): The new year's game is revealed the first weekend in January.

  • Design & Build: Students brainstorm, prototype, CAD, build, wire, and program a robot.

  • Competitions (Feb-Mar): Teams compete at high-energy regional events, forming alliances and earning awards.

  • Championship (April): The top teams advance to the international competition in Houston, TX.


    • May - December: Offseason


  • Skill-building workshops in CAD, machining, and coding to name a few.

  • Outreach events to promote STEM in the community.

  • Offseason competitions for more practice and fun.


    • How the Team Works: Subteams


    Every student starts with no experience and learns skills on the team. Students can explore multiple subteams before choosing a focus:


  • Strategy: Game analysis, data collection, and competition scouting.

  • Design: CAD modeling, robot layout, part drawings and CAM programming.

  • Build: Manufacturing with mills, lathes, CNC equipment and assembling the robot.

  • Electronics: Wiring motors, sensors, and controls.

  • Programming: Develop robot code, driver control layout, and autonomous routines.


    • Joining the Team


  • Who Can Join: Students in grades 9-12 (ages 14-18).

  • Best Time to Join: August - November, before build season ramps up mid December.

  • Commitment:

    • Build Season (Jan-Mar): Up to 6 meetings per week + competitions. We have no minimum attendance requirement but feel making at least 2-3 meetings a week will get you “your money's worth”.
    • Offseason (Apr-Dec): 2 or so meetings per week, more flexible.

  • Cost: We charge $800 for the first student, $200 for the second and $0 for additional students per family annually. This helps cover the FIRST registration fees the team pays to participate in competitions. The team works with industry sponsors and donations to purchase materials and components needed to construct the robot, deliver summer camps and other organizational expenses.

    Scholarships may be available for families for whom the dues would be a financial hardship.

    If you or anyone you know is interested in supporting our mission please email fundraising@metrohomeschoolrobotics.org.


    • Next Step: Come Visit Us

    Before joining, we invite all prospective members to visit our meeting space. This gives families a chance to:

  • Meet mentors and students

  • See the robots and tools in action

  • Experience the team's culture firsthand

    • Sign Up for a Visit by going to our Calendar Page, pick an available visiting date and sign up for a visit using the sign up form.



    FAQs for Parents


    Does my student need prior experience?

    No - everything is taught on the team, with mentors and returning students guiding new members. If you happen to be in a STEM or accompanying field, parent participation is welcomed and encouraged.


    What will my student learn?

  • Strategy & data analysis
  • Engineering & design
  • Programming & electronics
  • Public speaking & leadership
  • Problem-solving & teamwork

    • *This is by no means an exhaustive list but are some of the highlights.


    Is travel required?

    We aim to compete at local regional events in Missouri and Kansas. If we qualify, we travel to the World Championship in Houston, TX.


    Can competing in FIRST help me go to college?

    Yes - FIRST students have access to over $80 million in scholarships from colleges and organizations.



    Why Families Choose MHR


  • Hands-On STEM Education - real-world skills, not just theory.

  • Teamwork & Leadership - students step up and own projects.

  • College & Career Benefits - FIRST is recognized by universities and employers worldwide.

  • Community & Fun - friendships, competitions, and unique experiences.


    • 👉 Ready to explore MHR? The first step is to see it in person.

    Visit our Calendar Page to see available times and Sign up for a Visit.