BEDFORD — The Lawrence County Superior STEAM 4-H Club is calling on the community for support after being named a finalist for a prestigious grant from internet and mobile provider Sparklight. Unlike traditional grants, the winner of this funding will be determined by a public vote, putting the future of local youth robotics in the hands of Lawrence County residents.
The club is competing for funds to upgrade their technology to the latest LEGO Education control systems, which feature integrated Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools designed to teach students AI literacy and modern computer science.
Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators
Founded in 2019, Superior STEAM has quickly become a powerhouse for youth development in Southern Indiana. The club serves over 80 students across 12 FIRST® Robotics teams, providing hands-on experience in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics.
The grant would specifically benefit the club’s six FIRST LEGO League (FLL) teams, which serve students in grades K-8. These teams use LEGO® technology to solve real-world problems, but the recent release of AI-enhanced control systems has created a need for a significant hardware upgrade.
“Upgrading now ensures our teams stay aligned with current FIRST standards and reduces equipment failures,” club organizers stated. “It allows us to serve more students with reliable, future-proof technology that prepares them for emerging STEM careers.”
How to Vote
Because this grant relies on public participation, every vote from the community directly impacts the club’s chances of winning.
- Where to Vote: Visit sparklight.com/contest.
- Frequency: You can vote once per day per device.
- Deadline: Voting is open now and concludes on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.
About Superior STEAM
Superior STEAM is a year-round 4-H program dedicated to inspiring the next generation of leaders and innovators. By participating in FIRST Robotics, students gain technical skills in programming and engineering alongside “soft skills” like teamwork and public speaking.
Registration for the club remains open year-round for youth ages 6 to 18. Interested families can find more information or sign up at superiorsteam.org.
