Bill > SB391

This bill establishes the Robotics Competition Grant Program in Arkansas to support robotics teams in public and private schools, with the goal of encouraging student participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The program will provide grants to eligible teams in grades 6-12 to cover expenses like competition fees, robotics kits, supplies, travel costs, and mentor stipends. To qualify, teams must demonstrate a partnership with a sponsor or educational institution, have an adult mentor, create an original robot, and commit to participating in at least one robotics competition within a year. The grants require a 25% matching contribution from other sources and will be administered by the Arkansas Department of Education, with an emphasis on maximizing the number of teams supported and ensuring geographic distribution. Eligible competitions include FIRST Robotics Competition, FIRST Tech Challenge, and VEX V5 Robotics Competition, with a focus on providing hands-on learning experiences, highlighting career opportunities, and developing students' problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership skills. The program's availability is subject to legislative appropriation, and the Department of Education will develop specific rules for grant application and administration.

Education

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=sb391&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R