Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation is expanding hands-on STEM opportunities after Mt. Vernon Middle School, Mt. Vernon Intermediate School, Fortville Elementary School, and McCordsville Elementary School were selected as recipients of the competitive 2026–2027 Robotics Competition Grant through the Indiana Department of Education. We are proud to announce that, for the third consecutive year, we have received this grant, with $43,700 awarded for the 2026-2027 school year. 

A key part of expanding robotics across the district is the support of community partner NineStar Connect, which has committed financial support representing 25% of the district’s total grant request and expressed a long-term commitment to sustaining and growing robotics opportunities. Alongside this community support, MVCSC Director of Technology Seth Hamilton will serve as the district-wide robotics coordinator, helping coaches with organization and logistics while aligning resources and supporting the program’s long-term growth.

Funding will provide robotics kits and supplies, competition registrations, coaching support, and other materials that give students opportunities to build, program, and compete with their robots. Through these experiences, students develop valuable skills in coding, engineering, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.

The IDOE review team recognized Mt. Vernon’s plan to give students meaningful opportunities to design, construct, program and operate robots in competitions sponsored by nonprofit organizations—all intending to increase student interest in STEM.

By expanding robotics from elementary through middle school, Mt. Vernon is building a strong STEM pathway and preparing students for future opportunities.  MVCSC is extremely grateful to the supportive community and staff members who continue to support the district in its mission to provide students with an engaging, hands-on education and to empower them to pursue their interests and future careers.