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Widefield School District 3
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![Meier Johnson standing in front of the drone competition field]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1763483637/wsd3org/uo1jgncnrategluhvrgs/IMG_3740.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1763483637/wsd3org/uo1jgncnrategluhvrgs/IMG_3740.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1763483637/wsd3org/uo1jgncnrategluhvrgs/IMG_3740.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1763483637/wsd3org/uo1jgncnrategluhvrgs/IMG_3740.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1763483637/wsd3org/uo1jgncnrategluhvrgs/IMG_3740.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1763483637/wsd3org/uo1jgncnrategluhvrgs/IMG_3740.jpg","width":2200}])
- Drones
- Robotics
- STEM
Security-Widefield, CO – The compelling success stories emerging from Widefield School District 3 (WSD3)'s robotics program were on full display at the recent Pikes Peak Robotics competition, which included the "VEX VRC - High Stakes" and the "Aerial Drones - Score Qualifier" on Saturday, November 8, at Mesa Ridge High School. The event underscored a powerful truth: early exposure to STEM through robotics creates a direct pipeline to future STEM careers.
The "Why": WSD3's Investment in Future STEM Careers
For WSD3, the program's impact is its core mission. Data reveals a compelling truth: 80% of high school students who spend two or more years in their robotics programs end up in STEM careers. This success rate is the district's "why."
A Local Success Story:
Meier Johnson, a 2023 Widefield High School graduate, is a testament to the program's influence and now serves as the Tournament Manager for the Aerial Drone Competition. A former member of the WHS drone team that reached Nationals in Detroit and placed in the top 10, Johnson went on to graduate college in digital forensics and data science. He shared: "It got me more into programming which got me more into data science. Early exposure to robotics and drones is crucial. It offers students engaging opportunities to grasp basic programming concepts, serving as an effective entry point into the fields of computer science and robotics.”
A Robotics Powerhouse and Community Leader
Widefield School District 3 (WSD3) currently operates the largest secondary robotics consortium in the state, boasting an impressive (50) VEX V5 and Aerial Drone Competition (ADC) teams across its middle and high schools.
For the past seven years, the program has pioneered multi-modal robotics, engaging students with technology across land, air, and sea.
Through the multi-district consortium of Pikes Peak Robotics, international winner of the Event Partner of the Year through the REC Foundation last year, WSD3 has led the way in multi-district robotics programming in southern Colorado.
WSD3's commitment ensures the program remains accessible and supportive:
- Low/No Cost Participation: By design, all event registration fees and required materials are covered by the DoDEA program and/or our CTE program.
- Community Support: Free meals are provided for all students, volunteers, and coaches at all events.
- Simply stated, if students have an interest in participating in robotics, they can do it here for free. Desire, curiosity, and interest are the only things required.
Competition Highlights and District Dominance
The recent competition showcased the program's competitive strength:
- 82 VEX V5 teams competed from across several districts (D3, D8, D11, Cherry Creek School District, D20, etc.).
- 37 of those teams are from D3, representing approximately 45% of the Pikes Peak Robotics constituency.
- Team Fire Hazard of WHS exemplifies this dedication, having qualified for VEX Worlds as a Junior High team and remaining an accomplished group with high hopes of returning to Worlds as High School competitors.
- The event also saw the continuation of simultaneous drone competitions, with an anticipated 35 teams competing in the Aerial Drone Competition this season.
The organization's commitment to growth is undeniable, including expanding into the National Robotics League by hosting the State Championship in April 2026 at Mesa Ridge High School.
Looking Ahead: National Spotlight at The Broadmoor
The momentum continues with two massive upcoming events. In February, Pikes Peak Robotics will host back-to-back Signature Events (Middle School and then High School) at The Broadmoor in conjunction with the prestigious AFCEA Cyber Space Symposium. This massive three-day event will draw 128 total teams (64 for each event) from across the nation, Canada, and Mexico.
WSD3 is dedicated to fostering the crucial skills that will shape the next generation of engineers, programmers, and scientists, proving that the future of STEM is being built and led right here in Widefield School District 3.
