The FIRST community gathered online last weekend for the FIRST Virtual Showcase presented by Qualcomm to recognize achievements of FIRST teams, mentors, and volunteers from the FIRST^® RISE^SM, powered by Star Wars: Force for Change, season. Special guests including Mark Hamill and Duff Goldman highlighted FIRST teams who have been forces for change during the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch the full show and read more about the highlights and honorees.

It’s time for us to redefine the game and revolutionize the way we play and move. We’re proud to share that FIRST is teaming up again with Disney and Lucasfilm for our 2020-2021 season: FIRST^® GAME CHANGERS^SM powered by Star Wars: Force for Change. Watch our season theme reveal video and save the date for May 15, when we will reveal new FIRST LEGO League sets to give you a taste of what’s coming next season.

This Teacher Appreciation Week, we celebrate educators for their unwavering dedication and commitment to inspiring young minds, even during the most challenging times. Subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter as we share spotlights on some outstanding FIRST educators who have made incredible impacts on their students and communities. Be sure to thank a teacher who made a difference in your life this week using #ThankATeacher.

In celebration of Star Wars Day, host Libby Kamen interviewed Matt Denton, animatronics engineer and co-creator of Star Wars droid BB-8, on Galactic Builders LIVE! powered by Star Wars: Force for Change. They chatted with viewers about Matt’s career journey, bringing BB-8 to live, his home build of droid D-O, and advice for FIRST students. Watch the archived stream on FIRSTtv.

The FIRST community worked hard this season. You had major breakthroughs, made unforgettable memories, and most importantly, you stuck together when plans changed. We want to help you remember all the good from the FIRST^® RISE^SM, powered by Star Wars: Force for Change, season with official merchandise priced below cost to bring you savings of 50%, plus free shipping.

Thank you to everyone who donated to FIRST this week for #GivingTuesdayNow. As you know, FIRST is a non-profit with a mission to prepare students to solve the world’s greatest challenges. Your support helps us to do that, and we are so grateful. Keep an eye out for upcoming opportunities to support (and maybe even get some cool FIRST swag in return).