New Hampshire schools achieve robotics milestone at Dallas competition

The New Hampshire State Board of Education convened on April 10, 2025, to discuss various educational initiatives, with a significant focus on the achievements of local robotics teams. The meeting highlighted the success of two public elementary schools that qualified for a prestigious robotics competition in Dallas, Texas, marking a notable achievement for New Hampshire's educational landscape.

The discussion began with a presentation from educators who expressed gratitude to the Department of Education for supporting their participation in the competition. They noted that the trip's expenses, totaling approximately $1.3 million, were mitigated by utilizing unspent robotics funds, allowing the schools to capitalize on available resources.

Participants shared insights into their robotics programs, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. One educator explained that their program typically accommodates around 12 students, forming multiple teams that design and build their own robots. The teams utilize a basic model known as the "swish robot," which they modify to enhance performance for competitions.

Students showcased their coding skills and the autonomous capabilities of their robots, demonstrating how they programmed their machines to perform specific tasks during competitions. The educators highlighted the importance of teamwork, noting that successful collaboration with other teams during practice sessions significantly contributed to their performance.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the students' independence in managing their projects, as coaches are prohibited from directly intervening in the design or coding processes. This emphasis on student-led initiatives underscores the educational value of robotics programs in fostering problem-solving skills and teamwork among young learners.

Overall, the meeting served as a platform to celebrate the accomplishments of New Hampshire's robotics teams while reinforcing the state's commitment to enhancing STEM education through innovative programs and collaborative efforts. The board plans to continue supporting such initiatives to inspire future generations of scientists and engineers.