Adds news Part 12, Academic Grant Programs, to Article 16 of GS Chapter 115C, providing as follows. Establishes the Educational and Competitive High School Robotics Grant Program (Program) to promote evidence-based, after-school programs for robotic education and competition for high school students, and to motivate students to pursue education and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics while building critical life and work-related skills. Requires the Program to operate in any year when funds are made available. Allows any robotics team to apply to the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) for a grant to develop an educational and competitive high school robotics program with a robotics partner; allows teams to be coordinated through a public school unit or a community organization (as defined). Sets out requirements for robotics partners. Requires DPI, by August of each year, to develop and publish criteria and guidelines for the application process and requires accepting applications until September 30. Sets out information that must be included in applications. Requires grants to be awarded by October 31st and allows funds to be used to: (1) establish a relationship with a robotics partner; (2) purchase robotics kits, parts, or supplies; (3) provide stipends for coaches; (4) make payments associated with participation in a robotics league or robotics competition; and (5) pay fees incurred as part of the administration of a robotics team. Requires DPI to report specified Program information to the specified NCGA committee and division by October 15th.
Appropriates $2.5 million in recurring funds for 2025-26 from the General Fund to DPI to establish and administer the Program. Effective July 1, 2025.
Amends GS 115C-379 to allow excused absences from school for participation in school-sanctioned academic competitions, including Science Olympiad, 4-H, high school robotics, and speech and debate. Makes conforming changes.
Applies beginning with the 2025-26 school year.

Statutes affected:
Filed: 115C-379
Edition 1: 115C-379