VEX IQ Robotics (Elementary Division) will begin in September with a MANDATORY Meeting on Tuesday, September 8, from 7:00- 8:00 pm at Lincoln Community Center in the Auditorium. Registration is limited and open ONLY to youth currently enrolled in grades 4-6 in Fall 2026. Due to program demand and VEX guidelines and grade requirements will be enforced. We will form teams of 2-3 students who will collaborate on all aspects of building, programming and driving the bot used to compete in virtual and /or in person VEX IQ competitions (with the goal) to qualify for the State VEX IQ championship in Spring of 2027 (date TBA). This is a competitive experience. Season runs from September - March (end date TBA and determined by qualifying success at region and / or state championships). Transportation to out of town contests (including state) is provided by parents of team members. Information re: tournaments, qualifying results and formats for competition have yet to be announced. Information will be shared with teams as it becomes available. The VEX IQ program is an early experience for elementary youth, interested in competing in VRC (VEX Robotics Challenge) in middle school or high school. VEX IQ does have a qualifying experience for the World Championship (Spring 2027). Youth / teams that qualify and want to participate in the World Championship will do so on their own via family and team fundraisers, led by the team parents. Community Education will pay team registration fees for invitationals and the state championship, as well as finance all necessary equipment for a season of competitive play. More information shared at the parent meeting in September. For more information on VEX IQ, contact Melanie M. Schmidt at mschmi3@isd77.org Our department is seeking VOLUNTEER coaches to assist with weekly practice sessions. Volunteers are a large part of our program success. To learn more, contact Melanie Schmidt at 507-207-3044 or mschmi3@isd77.org