101 Robotics Teams receive state grants

CONCORD -– The New Hampshire Department of Education today announced that 101 New Hampshire schools have been awarded grants so far this year from the Robotics Education Fund. That compares to 57 schools last year. The grants, which help fund the purchase of robotics kits, stipends for coaches, and competition expenses including transportation, total $522,000 so far. Participating schools are eligible for another grant next year.

The purpose of the program is to motivate public school students, including those attending traditional and charter schools, to pursue educational and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, while building critical life and work-related skills. Grants from the robotics education fund established in RSA 188-E:24 shall be available to any eligible public school, traditional or charter, for the purpose of financing the establishment of a robotics team and its participation in competitive events.

"Robotics tournaments combine teambuilding, problem solving, and hands-on high-tech experience. I am thrilled that the Robotics Education Fund is helping more than 100 New Hampshire schools compete over the next two years," said Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut. "Funding is still available, and I would encourage any eligible school with a robotics team, or starting one, to apply."

Eligibility:

• Must be for students attending public schools, traditional or charter.
• The school must develop a two-year itemized budget for the robotics program.
• The school must establish a partnership with, or have a valid letter of commitment from, at least one sponsor, such as a business entity or institution of higher education.
• The school must participate in at least one competitive event each year.
• Grants will support robotics teams for the next two years.

For more information, contact Melissa White at Melissa.White@doe.nh.gov or 603-271-3855.

• Schools awarded grants under the Robotics Education Fund