Panel backs plan to convert STEM robotics grant to advisory-guided program to sustain teams

Senate bill 105, presented by Senator Stanley, would expand the existing robotics/STEM grant program to create criteria and continuing grants so teams in underserved and under-resourced schools can sustain operations beyond initial startup funding. The sponsor said teams often survive only a year without sustained funding, particularly in rural or low-income districts, and cited the need to preserve opportunities that can lead students into technology careers.

Melissa Velasquez from the Department of Education told the committee the bill as drafted could unintentionally exclude teams that were established through prior participation in the grant program and suggested clarifying language so existing teams are eligible. Advocates from Code VA and the Virginia Education Association called the bill an equity measure. The chair proposed converting the bill to a section 1 measure that would direct the STEM Education Advisory Board to develop qualifying guidelines, balancing the need to refine language with a desire not to delay funding for teams already at risk of losing opportunities.

The committee voted to amend SB105 into a section 1 bill directing the STEM Education Advisory Board to do the work; the amendment passed and the bill was reported out on a vote of 9 to 1. The action sends the policy question to the advisory board for development of criteria and leaves opportunity for further amendments at the full committee stage.