Arkansas schools gather for VEX Robotics Tournament in Mabelvale

MABELVALE, Ark. – A competitive meeting of the minds, both human and artificial, gathered in Mabelvale Wednesday to compete in the VEX Robotics Tournament.

The Little Rock School District’s Advanced Program hosted the tournament in Mabelvale Wednesday, Jan. 31, bringing together nearly 30 teams from across Arkansas.

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Advance Academics Program Director Romona Cheneval said that each tournament pushes students to work together and use their skills in programming and driving their robotics during the competion.

“Team skills are vital in troubleshooting, planning, and presenting. Each VEX IQ tournament engages students in individual and team skills, including programming, driving, journaling, and participating in team interviews,” Cheneval said.

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Competitor Iviona Hearn explained that competing can be difficult but continuous practice is key.

“It’s a little complicated when you first start,” Hearn said. “But when you keep on at it, you get the hang of it and it’s just kind of tricky.”

The Little Rock, London, Hope, Russellville, Bradford, and Greenwood School Districts participated in the tournament.

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