Hi , 

Coming to you from FIRST^® HQ in Manchester, NH, USA.

WHAT'S NEW

BIOGLOW™ Challenge Update: A new BIOGLOW Founders Edition Challenge Update was posted on September 2. Make sure to review the Challenge Updates & Clarifications throughout the season.

Updated BIOGLOW Founders Edition Scoring Materials: Scoring materials, including the Scoresheets, Robot Game Excel Scorer, and the Event Hub Official Score Calculator, have been updated to reflect the recent Challenge Update. Make sure to download the latest versions from the Season Resources page.

Nominations for the 2027 Inspire the Future: FIRST^® Recognition Program open September 14! Learn more about the program and how you can nominate an educator or school that has made a positive impact on your community.

Exclusive FIRST^® coach gift available for Role of a Lead Coach Training: Available now, any learners who complete the Role of a Lead Coach Training on FIRST Training will be able to opt-in to receive an exclusive FIRST coach gift. Learners must opt-in at the end of the training to receive their gift. Those who have already completed the training will receive an email to opt-in. This gift will be available for a limited time while supplies last. FIRST Training is accessible from your FIRST Dashboard.

For Coaches & Team Admins: Team Contact Card Now Displays Training Status: Team Contact Cards now display role-specific training status, making it easier for Lead Coaches and Team Administrators (with roster access) to track training completion requirements for team contacts. Role-specific training is designated as required but does not prevent participation if incomplete. Team leaders can use the Team Contact Card to monitor and manage these requirements across their team. Role-specific training varies by role.

Welcome to the BIOGLOW™ Season: During the 2026-2027 biodiversity-inspired robotics season FIRST^® CANOPY™, students will use their STEM skills and collaboration to engineer a thriving planet together. The FIRST^® LEGO^® League BIOGLOW™ season will be an expedition of growth and innovation. Season materials are now available.

Season materials for BIOGLOW Future Edition (Grades K-2) will be released on October 1 – stay tuned!

REMINDERS

Review your Youth Protection Program Clearances: As previously announced, annual FIRST Youth Protection clearances now include:

✅Youth Protection Policy Acknowledgment.
✅ Youth Protection Training.
✅ Youth Protection Screening. (U.S./Canada).

FIRST Dashboard profiles have recently been updated to reflect this change, and all lead coaches and mentors should go to their profile and confirm their Youth Protection status.

Career Connections: Learn about different biodiversity careers with these videos from our Program Delivery Partner in Australia.

FIRST Certified Professional Development: Kick off the school year by stepping into your students’ world and learning how to guide them through hands-on, discovery-driven activities. Join us for remote sessions designed to build confidence, spark engagement, and bring fresh energy to your program. Learn more. Contact the FIRST Professional Services team if you have questions about upcoming sessions or registration.

CELEBRATION AND SHOUTOUTS

What are you most excited about for the #BIOGLOW season?  

Let us know on social media and be sure to tag us!