Liberty Middle School, part of Newark City Schools, is elevating its robotics program with the recent award of five $500 grants from AEP Ohio, totaling $2,500. This funding will help sixth, seventh and eighth graders build robots and participate in the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics program. FIRST is a non-profit organization that hosts robotics tournaments across the state, featuring teams throughout the world.
“It’s important to support programs like these so the students have the opportunity to continue learning and exploring in STEM areas,” said Patrick Simpson, business service account manager. “These are life skills that will stick with them forever, and made possible with the support of local, caring organizations.”
Educators emphasized the importance of solving real-world problems, underscoring the necessity of this type of education. Liberty Middle School has five robotics teams that reached out to AEP Ohio for support. Simpson presented the $2,500 grant on April 22. Teachers and staff indicated that they would use the funding for tournament fees, kits, shirts and replacement parts to ensure their robots are competition-ready.
“AEP has donated a combined $13,000 to support our Robotics teams at our schools. A representative visited the program at Liberty today, presenting a $2,500 check. AEP’s support helps make our robotics programs possible,” said a spokesperson for Newark City Schools.
Every year, Newark City Schools hosts a robotics competition, making grant money essential for funding projects like this, especially for the kids.
“Ms. Kutscherenko explained seeing students learn and understand how technology and science can be used is incredibly rewarding,” said Simpson. “One of the many reasons we support programs like these is to encourage students to pursue careers in STEM fields, with the hope that they may one day join our team!”
Legos and robots go hand in hand for these kids. This experience not only enhances their creativity but also shapes the next generation of engineers.
