HAGERSTOWN, MD News (2/7/2024) – Washington County Public Schools (WCPS) is set to showcase the talents and skills of elementary students through a pair of VEX IQ robotics competitions, marking a milestone for the district’s engagement in STEM education. Hosted at South Hagerstown High School later this month, the competitions will provide a platform for student teams to demonstrate their prowess in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) principles.
Sponsored Stories
VEX IQ, a plastic snap-together robotics system, serves as the foundation for these competitions, offering students an immersive experience in coding software, curriculum, and interactive games. These events aim to foster hands-on, student-centered learning, enhancing participants’ STEM skills through exciting challenges and research projects.
South Hagerstown High School will be the venue for the VEX IQ Maryland State Qualifying Tournament on Saturday, February 10, followed by the Maryland State Championship on Saturday, February 24. The State Qualifying Tournament anticipates over 40 teams from across Maryland, including representatives from six WCPS schools: Bester, Fountaindale, Emma K. Doub, Hickory, Eastern, and Hancock elementary schools.
The schedule for both events remains consistent, with doors opening at 8:45 a.m. and activities commencing promptly thereafter. The day’s agenda includes check-in and inspection, followed by qualifier matches, a lunch break, finals, and culminating in an awards ceremony and cleanup.
Christopher Kopco, WCPS STEM and Environmental Literacy Coordinator, expressed enthusiasm for the district’s involvement in the VEX IQ program, “Three years ago, we started the VEX IQ program in Bester, Fountaindale, and Emma K. Doub elementary schools. The program has now expanded into six elementary schools, and we are excited to be hosting both the state qualifying tournament and the state championship thanks to the efforts of South Hagerstown High School Robotics Coach Don Custer.”
Get daily and breaking news for Washington County, MD area from Radio Free Hub City. Sign up with your email today!
Kopco extended an invitation to the community to attend these events, encouraging support for the participants and showcasing the dedication of students from Washington County and beyond to exploring high-tech fields such as robotics.
Story by multiple RFHC contributors.
Discover more from Radio Free Hub City
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.