The TVA Robotics Grant application period is now open, and Upper Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation encourages eligible local schools to apply.

This grant program is a great opportunity to invest in students through hands on learning experiences that build creativity, teamwork, problem solving, and technical skills. Funding can be used to help start a robotics program or strengthen an existing one through the purchase of robotics kits, tools, materials, and competition entry fees.

We want to see students in our communities succeed and thrive, and opportunities like this can help create pathways for growth, confidence, and future career readiness. Applicants can learn more and apply at tva.com/robotics.

Programs like this are especially meaningful because similar grant opportunities have already helped schools in our area create impactful learning experiences for students.

UCEMC recently visited several local schools with TVA to see firsthand how past STEM grant funds are being used.

At Algood Middle School, students are building a composting station that will help reduce waste at the school and create plant food for their garden and arboretum tree farm. According to Ms. Wren, all of her students helped build the compost bins.

At VITAL School, students built a drone completely on their own and are now using it in competition. They assembled it, configured the mechanics, and brought it to life through their own work and learning.

At White Plains School, grant funds helped provide a greenhouse that will allow students to expand their plant lessons and experience more of the growing process from seed to sprout.

These projects show how grant funding can support meaningful, student driven learning. We encourage eligible schools and organizations to apply for the TVA Robotics Grant and take advantage of this opportunity to bring even more hands on educational experiences to students in our region.