This is Drive Forward Friday, the VEX Robotics monthly newsletter focusing on news and events from the expansive world of robotics that we’re fortunate to be a part of.
Let’s dive into what we’re focusing on for the month of December:
Join the CSEdWeek 2023 Kickoff: Exploring the Impacts of Computing
Call for Presenters – VEX Robotics Educators Conference
Join the CSEdWeek 2023 Kickoff: Exploring the Impacts of Computing
Get ready to dive into the dynamic world of computing with the CSEdWeek 2023 Kickoff, an on-line event co-sponsored by VEX Robotics and Apple Education. This informative event, set for Monday, Dec. 4, 2023, from 6-7 p.m. CT, marks the beginning of an exciting week dedicated to inspiring K-12 students in the realm of Computer Science (CS).
This year, CSEdWeek turns the spotlight on the “Impacts of Computing,” a theme that delves into the multifaceted effects of computing on various aspects of our lives. From education to privacy, security, and accessibility, the event will explore both the positive and negative influences of this ever-evolving field.
A panel of 2023 CSHeroes, including Vanessa Jones and Dr. Abigail Joseph will be featured. These experts will lead a thought-provoking discussion, with a special emphasis on Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science, offering insights and perspectives that are not to be missed.
CSEdWeek is Dec. 4-10. Find more information about it here.
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Hour of Code

Prepare for the upcoming Hour of Code! This much-anticipated event, a key part of Computer Science Education Week, is set for December 4-10, 2023. We invite you to delve into the VEX Robotics Hour of Code page, where a world of free coding opportunities awaits within the VEX Continuum. Additionally, our VEXcode VR Camps are ready to equip you with everything necessary to run a VEX Camp for your students. Here’s a glimpse of what they can learn:
- Coral Reef Cleanup
- Ocean Rescue Camp
- Storm the Castle Camp
- A-MAZE-ing Robots Camp
- Robots on the Run Camp
- Robot Art Studio
Furthermore, for December, we’re unlocking select VEXcode VR Playgrounds from our Enhanced and Advanced tiers, including Wall Maze+, Castle Crasher+, and VEX Competition!
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VEX Robotics at ACTE
The VEX Robotics Team is attending ACTE CareerTech Vision 2023 from November 29 to December 2 and will showcase the exciting developments our team has been working on in the CTE arena. Discover more about the VEX CTE Workcell and related curriculum offerings in the video below.
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Call for Speakers – VEX Educators Conference
Are you ready to take the stage at the 2024 VEX Robotics Educators Conference? For the first time, we’re extending an open invitation to all members of the VEX Community to share their expertise. If you’ve been considering a chance to showcase your knowledge, now is the perfect time to submit your proposal. The submission form is available right now!
This Conference, held alongside the esteemed VEX Robotics World Championship, offers a unique opportunity to:
- Forge lasting connections with fellow educators.
- Acquire practical strategies for integrating robotics into your classroom.
- Participate in hands-on sessions and be inspired by talks from leading educators.
- Exchange stories and learn from real-world classroom experiences.
Perks for Presenters:
- VEX PD+ All-Access Members: Enjoy an additional year on your subscription.
- New Presenters: If you’re not a PD+ All-Access Subscriber and are selected to present, you’ll receive a complimentary year of PD+ All-Access and a free pass to the Conference.
Please inform your colleagues and friends about this chance to contribute their insights. As a presenter, you can speak in the Exhibition Hall, on the Main Stage, or even both! Take advantage of this chance to make your mark at a premier educational event!
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If you missed last month’s edition of Drive Forward Friday, here’s what we covered: