Step into the world of innovation with our Robotics Club, where kids become creators, coders, and engineers! Using the VEX system, students will build and program real robots while exploring exciting STEM concepts in a fun, hands-on environment. Whether they're racing bots, solving challenges, or gearing up for competitions, every meeting brings new opportunities to learn and lead. 

The proposed robotics program at Barrett Elementary aims to meet a growing need to engage students in STEM learning while fostering collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking. As we prepare students for the demands of a rapidly evolving technological world, it is essential to provide them with opportunities to develop 21st-century skills such as coding, engineering design, and teamwork. Currently, students at Barrett Elementary have limited access to enrichment programs that support these areas especially those that are hands-on, inquiry-driven, and competitive. 
In summary, this project directly addresses academic gaps in STEM engagement, provides a powerful tool for collaboration and hands-on learning, and opens the door for long-term program sustainability and growth. By targeting our 5th-grade students many of whom have not had access to these types of opportunities we will create a program that not only supports their academic development but also builds confidence, teamwork, and a lifelong love of learning. This robotics program has the power to transform our school culture and create lasting partnerships within our district, starting with a connection to Drew Elementary and expanding from there.

Our goal is to launch a robotics club that will engage 5th-grade students in its first year, with the aim of expanding to include 4th-grade students the following year. By incorporating SMART objectives into our project design, we ensure that the program is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound, enabling us to track its success and ensure sustainability. With the awarded grant funds, we will purchase VEX GO robotics kits, supplemental materials, and storage containers necessary to implement a structured robotics program. Activities will be conducted weekly in the Barrett Elementary STEM lab and led by trained staff members. Each week, students will participate in structured challenges that align with science and math TEKS, focusing on coding basics, engineering design, and collaborative problem-solving. Student teams will be guided through the engineering design process: planning, building, testing, and modifying their robots. The hands-on nature of the program supports various learning styles and helps students develop computational thinking and iterative design skills. Students will also gain valuable experience in working cooperatively toward shared goals an essential life and workplace skill. 
As the program progresses, students will prepare for friendly competitions with Drew Elementary and potentially other nearby schools. Competitions will involve structured challenges, encouraging students to problem-solve in real time and think critically under pressure. These events will also help students build confidence, leadership, and pride in their accomplishments. The Barrett Elementary Robotics Program will address clear academic and engagement needs among our upper elementary students while promoting collaboration, creativity, and perseverance. By providing students with hands-on experiences in STEM, we aim to increase their confidence, enhance their academic achievement, and prepare them for the future. With the support of this grant, we can ensure the program is successfully launched, sustained, and eventually expanded to impact even more students across our campus and beyond.