Young Students Give Back to the Gault Archaeological Site

A parent and coach of the Robo Rockstarz, a group of young student members of the First Lego League in Central Texas, wrote this compelling letter to GSAR about how a tour of the Gault site inspired these students to host a fundraiser to support continued educational and research projects at the site.  Thank you, Poojah Rau, for sharing such a heartfelt note about how the Gault site impacted these young, inquiring minds.

"Last year, a team of enthusiastic students from BASIS Pflugerville and BASIS Cedar Park (5th and 6th graders)—collectively known as RoboRockstarz—had the opportunity to visit the Gault Archaeological Site in Florence, Texas. What began as an educational field experience quickly became a moment of inspiration that deepened their appreciation for archaeology, early human history, and the importance of preserving our shared past.

"During their visit, the students learned about the Clovis/ Pre-Clovis culture and the groundbreaking discoveries made at Gault that have transformed our understanding of the earliest peoples of the Americas. Seeing the site firsthand helped bring history to life in a way textbooks never could. The students were especially struck by how stone tools and artifacts—silent for thousands of years—could tell such powerful stories about innovation, survival, and human ingenuity.

"Their learning was further enriched by the documentary Stones Are Speaking, which highlights the profound significance of archaeological evidence and the voices of researchers who dedicate their lives to uncovering humanity’s deep history. Inspired by both the documentary and their experience at Gault, the students felt compelled to take action and share what they had learned with their broader community.

"On January 3rd 2026, the BASIS School students hosted a Hot Cocoa Bar in their local neighborhood as a creative and welcoming way to raise awareness and support for the Gault Archaeological Site. Neighbors were invited to enjoy warm drinks while learning about the importance of Gault’s discoveries and its role in American history. Through this student-led initiative, the team successfully raised $400, all of which was donated to support public education and continued research at the site.

"The proceeds were given in honor of Dr. Michael Collins and the many archaeologists whose decades of work at Gault have preserved and illuminated this extraordinary record of early human life. The students expressed deep gratitude for the scientists, researchers, and educators whose dedication ensures that these stories continue to be studied, protected, and shared with the public.

"This effort reflects more than a fundraiser—it demonstrates how meaningful educational experiences can inspire young people to become advocates for science, history, and cultural preservation. These students show that curiosity, teamwork, and community engagement can make a real impact, regardless of age.

"The Gault Archaeological Site has long been a place where the past speaks to the present. Thanks to TARL and Gault site that message is being carried forward to a new generation—one cup of hot cocoa at a time."

Thank you.

—Poojah Rau
Coach, Robo Rockstarz

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