Dear Potential Donor,

My name is Mark Wladyslawski, Chemistry teacher and coach of the competitive Engineering Team at Bethlehem Catholic High School. Each year, our Engineering team prepares for the international TSA/TEAMS competition. TEAMS stands for Tests of Engineering Aptitude, Mathematics, and Science; the three-part competition consists of a collaborative group test of difficult engineering questions, a themed physical-build challenge, and a research essay. About 700 teams throughout the United States, and some internationally, competed in this year’s Regional events.

Of the 67 teams that competed in Pennsylvania, two of our 4-person teams placed Second and Fourth overall in the state, qualifying both teams for the National Competition taking place this year in Orlando FL at the end of June. It is my hope to solicit the funds necessary to participate at the Nationals Event. We have in years past also qualified for Nationals, having for instance won the state of PA in 2022, but in each year, funding for the trip has been the main obstacle to participating at the National level.

The TEAMS competition offers students a unique opportunity to experience Engineering, in tests that demand collaboration, analytical thinking, and multi-dimensional problemsolving. Our two teams this year, consisting of 6 girls and 2 boys, have worked hard all year in preparation for the Regional event. It is my strong desire to give them the opportunity to grow further through participation at Nationals. Many of our Engineering team students have gone on to study Engineering in college, such as aerospace, civil/environmental, computer, and even sound engineers. My own daughter, for instance, is currently a Junior at the University of Vermont, studying Environmental Engineering, and she credits Becahi's Engineering team as a formative experience.

I would humbly request that you/your organization consider donating to help fund our participation at the Nationals event. Our goal is to raise approximately $5000 to cover the hotel and flight costs. We would be sure to publicly acknowledge your support, if desired. All gifts to Bethlehem Catholic High School are tax deductible to the extent provided by law. The Bethlehem Catholic High School Federal Tax I.D. number is 24- 0843210. Thank you sincerely for your consideration.

Mark Wladyslawski

Bethlehem Catholic High School

2133 Madison Avenue

Bethlehem, PA 18017

mwladyslawski@becahi.org

Engineering Team Competition Appeal

Team Members