State senator highlights robotics legislation in stop at Upper St. Clair High School
State Sen. Devlin Robinson is co-sponsoring legislation that would increase access to robotics programs for K-12 students, and he talked it up during a stop at Upper St. Clair High School Wednesday.
The bill, which Robinson is sponsoring along with state Sen. Nikil Saval, a Democrat from Philadelphia, would set up a grant program that would help schools launch robotics programs and support the ones already in place. They say it would give students across the commonwealth greater access to learning opportunities in fields related to science, technology, engineering and math.
Robinson’s district includes Upper St. Clair, and he also recognized Team TeraBridges, the high school’s robotics squad which has recently been successful in national and international competitions.
“Across Pennsylvania, students are developing skills that will define the future of our economy,” said Robinson, a Bridgeville Republican. “They’re learning to solve complex problems, write code and design and build sophisticated machines. They work together as a team to overcome challenges. Those aren’t just robotics skills, but life skills – the same skills our manufacturers, technology companies, healthcare providers and countless other employers are looking for in tomorrow’s workforce.”
The measure Robinson is co-sponsoring would help schools offset the costs that come with robotics programs. Schools sometimes have to hold fundraisers, secure grant funding or go hat-in-hand to the community for things like equipment or fees to enter competitions.
State Rep. Natalie Mihalek was also at the event. The Peters Republican, whose district includes Upper St. Clair, said robotics programs “can give young learners the chance to build real STEM skills, confidence and collaboration. Expanding access to these opportunities will strengthen our community and help the robotics industry continue to grow in our district, while inspiring the next generation of problem solvers.”
If the grant program is established, schools would have to provide a 25% match for any funds provided, find a local sponsor and take part in at least one in-person competition. The bill was introduced in July and has been referred to the state Senate’s education committee.