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MSD seeks Department of Education robotics grant to fund elementary VEX programs
Summary
MSD Steuben County will apply for a Department of Education grant (up to $50,000; district requested about $18,000) to fund VEX robotics kits, coach stipends and competition fees for the district’s four elementary schools.
MSD Steuben County administrators told the board on May 20 they will apply for a Department of Education K–12 robotics competition grant and asked trustees to approve the application. The board voted 7–0 to approve applying for and accepting the grant if awarded.
The district said the grant award can be up to $50,000 but the district plans to request roughly $18,000 to purchase VEX robotics kits for each of the four elementary schools, provide a stipend for a robotics coach at each school, and cover competition fees and transportation. “This will allow us to purchase VEX robotics equipment for each of the 4 elementary schools, pay a stipend for a robotics coach at each school, and competition fees and transportation for our elementary students to be able to compete,” a presenter said.
Administrators said the grant funds would be distributed evenly across the elementary schools and intended to support program sustainability; the stipend request could be continued in future budget cycles if funding is available. The board approved the motion by roll call with no recorded amendments.
District staff said middle and high school robotics capacity exists but varies by year and depends on student interest and enrollment.
The board’s vote authorizes staff to submit the grant application and to accept the funds if awarded.
