VEX IQ
VEX IQ enables engaging competitive robotics that inspires students with a complete STEM experience.
The VEX IQ system includes plastic, snap-together pieces designed specifically for the dexterity for young hands. Students can easily build their first robot, and the wide variety of additional parts means that students can build a robot that is bigger, stronger, and more functional as students continue to learn.
Students who are in 4th1 through 8th grade are available to register for the VEX IQ program. Enrollment for this program is generally open from June to August of each year. To signup to participate in this program, please fill out and submit a member application. Once the season starts, students will work towards designing and building their robot to compete in local competitions in early January/February.
Dues for the year are $285 per student for our normal VEX IQ Teams and $350 for students on our Advanced VEX IQ Teams. Student dues help cover the operating cost of the program. Payments can be processed through our website or via check (Payment Policy). Students have the option of paying in Half or Full increments. Payment is due by the below dates (or within 7 days of initial registration). If a student registers between dates, the latest amount that has not passed is due.
- August 1st – Minimum Half Due
- October 1st – Full Payment Due
Travel costs to the World Championship is not included in the above registration cost. If the team qualifies for the World Championship – Estimated $1000 (including flights to Houston TX).
Teams meets for an hour and half twice a week2 at The Hive (44010 Commerce Ave, Hollywood MD 20636). You can check out our full program calendar. Individual meeting days and times are determined by the team coach. Each team will have their first meeting between September 2nd and September 13th.
Advanced Teams
VEX IQ Advanced teams are for students who are looking for more of a competitive challenge throughout the season.
These teams will compete in additional competitions throughout the season and focus more on both advanced software (C++) and hardware (pneumatics) skills and strive to make it farther into the competition season.
Advanced Team Slots are invitation only that will be offered to returning VEX IQ Students that have a recommendation from their coach and new 7/8th grade students.
Parent Coaches
growingSTEMS requires a parent coach for each VEX IQ Team. Parents who volunteer as full time coaches receive an incentive of one free VEX IQ student registration ($285 or $350 value).
The number of VEX IQ teams offered is directly tied to the number of parent coaches. If no parents volunteer to coach a team, a limited number of students will be accepted.
1 Students who are in 4th grade who have completed a year of the VEX GO program will be accepted into the VEX IQ program. All new 4th grade students will be required to participate in the VEX GO program.
2 days of the week subject to change pending member and coach availability. Each team will meet once during the week, and once on the weekend. Available time slots include Monday to Friday 6PM, Saturday 10AM / 12PM / 2PM / 4PM, and Sunday 1PM / 3PM.