Robotics Program Shines in Compton Unified
Media Release
Compton Unified’s Robotics program is putting innovation into action and opening doors to the future for scholars across the district. With robotics now embedded in every CUSD school, students are gaining early and sustained exposure to science, technology, engineering, and math, building critical skills that prepare them for college, careers, and life beyond the classroom. The program has been championed by Michele Dawson, CUSD Senior Director, Instructional Tech and Innovation.
The district’s Robotics program is showcased through participation in the First Tech Challenge, where scholars compete in a series of high-energy meets featuring student-built robots that are designed, coded, and tested to complete complex tasks.
This year, more than 100 CUSD scholars across nearly 20 teams took part in the competitions, demonstrating impressive technical knowledge while working collaboratively under pressure. Each meet challenges students to think strategically, adapt in real time, and apply classroom learning to hands-on engineering and coding challenges.
From programming and mechanical design to teamwork and problem-solving, these competitions highlight the powerful, real-world learning happening throughout Compton Unified.
The program is also fostering greater equity and inclusion in STEM, with inspiring all-girl teams stepping confidently into leadership roles and redefining what’s possible in traditionally underrepresented fields.
The impact is clear: more than 50% of CUSD scholars now say they want to pursue a career in a STEM field. This growing interest reflects the district’s commitment to access, opportunity, and innovation—and proves that when students are supported and challenged, they are ready to rise, build, and lead the future.
