The Lloydminster Public School Division (LPSD) made history by hosting its inaugural Grade 6 VEX Robotics Challenge.
The event brought together students from E.S. Laird Middle School and College Park School, offering them an exciting opportunity to show off their skills in teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving.
Held on Nov. 22, the competition was designed to inspire young minds through hands-on learning. Participants used VEX Robotics kits to build and program robots capable of completing three complex tasks.
Cenovus donated money to provide the kits to the competing schools.
From navigating a timed obstacle course to pushing spheres into designated zones and stacking cubes in elevated areas, the challenges tested both the design and the ability to work together.
Cornelius Krahn, a teacher and event organizer from College Park School, emphasized the value of introducing robotics early.
“There’s a natural affinity kids have for building and creating,” he said. “We’re combining that passion with structure so they can do amazing, innovative things with real-life applications.”
For many students, the competition offered a chance to excel outside of traditional extracurricular activities. Leah Larocque, a robotics teacher from E.S. Laird, highlighted this inclusivity.
“Some of these kids aren’t really athletic,” she explained. “This gives them a chance to shine, bond, and build teamwork while doing something they love.”
Throughout the morning, students demonstrated skills essential for robotics success. Krahn stressed the importance of communication and compromise. Additionally, teams brainstormed concepts, built prototypes, tested their robots, and made improvements based on performance.
“This is a team event; they’ve had to talk, work together, and refine their ideas through the design process,” said Krahn.
Larocque hopes her students take away more than technical knowledge.
“I want them to learn logical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving,” she said. “But I also hope they develop a love for learning and being part of something bigger.”
Inspiration in robotics
The event attracted excitement from participants and spectators alike, with each round showcasing the students’ efforts and determination. Additionally, the timed obstacle course had teams racing against the clock. Meanwhile, the sphere-pushing and cube-stacking challenges demanded precision and strategy. However, points were awarded based on speed, accuracy, and successful completion of tasks.
With its first-ever robotics challenge now in the books, LPSD aims to inspire a new generation of engineers and innovators. Krahn compared the experience to bringing video games to life.
“It’s right there in front of them, real and tangible,” he said.
This groundbreaking event proved that even at the Grade 6 level, students can tackle complex engineering challenges while having fun. LPSD hopes the competition becomes a tradition, sparking a passion for STEM in Lloydminster’s youth.
Read More: LPSD doubles down celebrating – Meridian Source
Locally owned and community driven, the Lloydminster Meridian Source is the online news source in the Border City. Whether it’s breaking news, features or sports, if you have questions about what’s going on around town, Source it with us.
Since online platforms no longer support the sharing of news, we encourage you to bookmark meridiansource.ca. Whether you’re having a coffee or enjoying a meal, check in any time for the most up-to-date news in Lloydminster.
