CogNation Makes Strong Debut at ‘Battle of the Gorge’ Robotics Tournament
THE DALLES — In a high-octane display of engineering and strategy, South Wasco County High School’s STEM club, “CogNation,” competed this past Saturday. The Battle of the Gorge VEX robotics tournament, the Redsides went head-to-head with a massive 30-team field representing schools from as far as Klamath Falls, Salem, and Vancouver.
CogNation started the day with a statement, surging into 3rd place after three consecutive match victories. While a string of narrow losses late in the qualifying rounds saw them finish 17th overall, their early performance caught the eyes of their peers.
The team’s journey didn't end there. During the elimination bracket, CogNation was selected by an alliance partner and successfully fought their way through the first round of finals. Their run ultimately ended in the Elite Eight, where they were knocked out by the tournament's top-seeded alliance—the same duo that eventually claimed the overall championship.
"Overall, it was a great first tournament for South Wasco's CogNation," the team shared in a statement, noting that the experience has only fueled their competitive fire.
The Redsides are already back in the lab, refining their designs and optimizing their code to increase point efficiency. Their eyes are set on the next challenge: a Valentine’s Day showdown in Gladstone on February 14.
Go Redsides! Go CogNation!
SWCHS recognized the 25th anniversary of the Lady Redsides 2001 State Basketball Championship team tonight between the varsity games.
It's game day!
Come out to support your middle school teams tonight and high school tomorrow!
The International Culture Club (ICC) is now taking orders for their Valentine Fundraiser 2026! Order your Special Valentine something today from either an ICC Club member, Grade School/High School Offices or email Aimee Hovis at aimeeh@swasco.net. All orders are due Friday, Feb 6th and delivered to the Grade School, Middle School or High School on Thursday, Feb 12th.
Congratulations to Mr. Jim Hull! He reached 400 Basketball Wins last night Tues Jan 27th at the game v Ione/Arlington! Way to go Mr. Hull!
Great job, Jorma Henson. He is featured in the Educator Spotlight of the Columbia Gorge STEM Hub.
https://www.gorgestem.org/educator-spotlight
Tomorrow is game day!
The SWC Middle School Science class is studying the Moon Phases using Oreo cookies! What a great idea and the kids had fun of course!
SWCSD would like you to know that After School Program (ASP) is cancelled today Wed Jan 21st.
Come cheer on YOUR REDSIDES! JV Boys Game 4:30 p.m. and Varsity Boys 6 p.m.
SWCSD would like to let you know that After School Program (ASP) is cancelled for tonight, Tues Jan 20th.
SWCSD would like to let you know that the One Community Health Mobile Clinic in Maupin is CANCELLED for Thurs Jan 22nd due to the bus being broke down.
Check out this fundraiser!
7th-8th Grade students are completing a papier-mâché globe-building project using the extensive AVID notes they took in the previous unit!
Come join us for SWC High School Game Day v Pilot Rock on Thursday, January 15th starting at 3:00pm!
Do you want to be involved with the youth of our community but don't know where to start? The school is always looking for volunteers for all kinds of things. If you want to be a part of the team, fill out an application here: https://www.swasco.net/documents/employment/volunteer-application/110062
Our Redsides played (and are still playing) well on the road today. The girls won, and the boys are currently in the lead!
IT'S GAME DAY. COME SUPPORT YOUR REDSIDES TODAY.
SWCSD would like you to know that there is NO After School Program today Thurs January 8th.