MA S460

Creates the "Workforce Preparation Robotics" grant program to fund robotics and STEM teams at Massachusetts public and charter schools, from elementary through high school levels

Schools without existing robotics programs receive priority for grants, with additional priority given to schools in Cape Cod and Western Massachusetts catchment areas

Grant amounts vary by school level and program type: elementary schools can receive $370-$1,250, middle schools $435-$4,000, and high schools $435-$18,000 depending on the robotics competition format

Eligible programs include FIRST Robotics Competition, FIRST Tech Challenge, FIRST Lego League (Explore and Challenge), VEX Robotics Competition, VEX IQ Challenge, and Science Olympiad

Applications must be submitted to the Department of Education by June 1 each year, with grants awarded subject to available appropriations