Students Compete In District’s Fourth Annual Robotics Competition

NEWARK, N.J. – Big ideas, innovation, and teamwork took center stage Saturday as Newark Public Schools hosted its fourth annual Districtwide Robotics Competition at Newark Vocational High School. The event, presented by the District’s Office of Educational Technology, brought together elementary school teams from across Newark to showcase their creativity, engineering skills, and passion for STEM learning.

During remarks from the podium, district leaders outlined an ambitious vision for expanding robotics and artificial intelligence education across Newark Public Schools.

Abdullah Ansari, Executive Director of Information Technology, shared plans to enhance the district’s K–12 AI and robotics programming beginning next school year. The expansion includes the introduction of AI sensors, Python coding as well as vibe coding, and 3D printers that will allow students to design and manufacture their own robot components.

“We are taking this program to the next level,” Ansari said. “By introducing AI tools, robotics enhancements, and 3D printing, we’re giving students access to the same technologies they will encounter in college and future careers. Our goal is to prepare them not just for competitions here in Newark, but for regional, state, and even national tournaments.”

Lisa Hromoko, Vice Principal of Lafayette Street School and Districtwide Robotics Coordinator, emphasized the district’s continued investment in hands-on learning tools and the collaborative effort behind the competition.

“Each year, this program grows stronger,” Hromoko said. “Next year, every participating school will receive a 3D printer that will be embedded directly into the robotics program. Today wasn’t just about trophies — it was about learning from one another, building confidence, and inspiring students to keep going.”

Students competed in multiple categories that emphasized not only performance, but perseverance, design, and team spirit – reinforcing the district’s commitment to hands-on, future-focused learning. This year’s award recipients were:

1. First Place:    Lafayette Street School
2. Second Place: Franklin Elementary School
3. Third Place:   Ann Street School

Perseverance Award:           

• Camden Street School
• Raphael Hernandez School
• Grover Cleveland Elementary School

Team Spirit Award:                         

• Sussex Avenue Elementary School
• Park Elementary School
• Sir Isaac Newton Elementary School

Outstanding Robot Design Award:

• Salome Urena Elementary School
• Quitman Elementary School
• Franklin Elementary School

Junior First Award:

• Michelle Obama Elementary School

Elizabeth Lawson, Supervisor in the Office of Educational Technology, highlighted the district’s expanding competitive pathway for students, including new in-district competitions, secured seats at regional and national events, and future opportunities to qualify for the international World Festival in Houston.

“Our robotics teams now have a clear pathway from district competitions all the way to the world stage,” Lawson said. “None of this would be possible without our dedicated robotics coaches who spend countless hours mentoring students, attending professional development, and ensuring our teams continue to grow and succeed.”

Coaches who have dedicated five years or more of service to Newark Public Schools’ robotics program were recognized for their long-term commitment to mentoring students, leading after-school teams, and helping grow the district’s robotics program year after year.

The following coaches were honored for their service:

• Cynthia Byrd, South 17th Street School – 7 years
• James Dixon, Chancellor Avenue School – 5 years
• Carmelot Dorcellus, Hawkins Street School – 20 years
• Katherine Clark, Grover Cleveland Elementary School – 5 years
• Lauren Gwyn-William, Abington Avenue School – 8 years
• Prema Gupta, Rafael Hernandez School – 5 years
• Jennifer Franco, Ridge Street School – 9 years

The event also recognized district staff volunteers, and students from the district’s technology high school robotics team, who served as judges and mentors throughout the competition.

Organizers stressed that the competition is designed not only to celebrate winners, but to encourage students to pursue STEM opportunities beyond elementary school, including robotics programs available at several Newark high schools.

“Today was about curiosity, collaboration, and innovation,” Hromoko said. “We want students to leave inspired, excited, and ready to take their learning even further.”