The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) has released a Request for Applications (RFA) for the "Youth Robotics" project under reference number 32025-00072. The initiative aims to foster student engagement in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields by promoting participation in robotics competitions for high school students in grades 9 through 12. The program seeks applicants to manage mentor-based, after-school robotics competitions across the state of Texas, focusing on both the creation of new teams and the support of existing competitive teams. The overarching goal is to broaden access to STEM-related opportunities and increase student interest in pursuing STEM careers.

The Youth Robotics Initiative has two core objectives: 1) the development of new robotics teams, and 2) the continued support of existing teams that have previously competed in high school robotics competitions. At least 50% of the funds requested by grantees must be allocated toward the creation and support of new teams. Additionally, a crucial component of the program is ensuring inclusivity, particularly for Students with Disabilities. Grantees are required to conduct outreach to this group when forming new teams and to organize a Dedicated Competition designed specifically for students with disabilities. This special competition should be accessible and structured in a way that removes any barriers that might prevent students with disabilities from fully participating.

The Dedicated Competition is intended to prioritize inclusion rather than adherence to standard competition rules. For example, time limits, physical layouts, and other restrictions should be adapted to allow greater participation from students with disabilities. Importantly, this competition is not required to be linked to other formal youth robotics competitions at the local, regional, or state levels, allowing flexibility for teams of students with disabilities to participate in a supportive environment without the pressure of advancing through typical competition structures.

The total funding available for this opportunity has not been specified, but grantees are expected to use a substantial portion of the funds to support new teams. Applicants should consider how they will design competitions that are accessible and inclusive, and they are encouraged to use innovative strategies to enhance the participation of students with disabilities. Beyond forming teams and organizing competitions, applicants will need to ensure that all competition environments are free from physical, procedural, or logistical barriers that might prevent students from fully engaging.

Eligible applicants likely include educational institutions, non-profit organizations, or other entities experienced in STEM education and capable of organizing robotics competitions. Grantees must demonstrate the ability to form new teams, support existing ones, and promote inclusion for students with disabilities. The application process involves submitting proposals detailing how the applicant will meet the program’s objectives, including how they plan to create inclusive competitions and remove participation barriers.

The deadline for submitting applications is November 21, 2024, by 10:00 AM CST, with questions regarding the RFA due by October 21, 2024, at 4:00 PM CDT. Interested parties can direct their inquiries to Tammy Ann Fowler-Lewis via the provided email address. Applicants are encouraged to submit their proposals as early as possible, ensuring they meet all eligibility and program requirements.