Cold Spring School, an Indianapolis Public Schools Innovation Network School, will send two elementary robotics teams to the VEX Robotics World Championship in St. Louis from April 25–27. The teams earned their spots after advancing to the finals and ranking in the top five at state competitions.
This participation highlights Cold Spring’s ongoing commitment to STEM education and student achievement in robotics. The program has a strong record of success, with this being its tenth consecutive year sending teams to the world championship.
Genevieve McLeish-Petty, a computer science teacher and co-coach of the program, said, “With supportive administrative leadership, a culture of collaboration, and a focus on problem-solving and coding skills, Cold Spring robotics continues to inspire students and elevate STEM education.”
David Petty was recognized as Indiana State Mentor of the Year for VEX IQ at the state championship. He received praise from current students, alumni, parents, former students, and other coaches across Indiana. McLeish-Petty said about their approach: “People ask us all the time how our students are so successful. We start in August, and the students come in ready to work. They commit to two practices a week, attend Saturday tournaments from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Most of our team members ask us to stay extra days, and we will match their effort and interest and stay whenever we can.” She added: “We don’t make them love the work—they push themselves and each other. Kids are capable of so much more than we give them credit for, and they thrive on a challenge.”
The Cold Spring robotics program is regarded as one of Indiana’s leading STEM initiatives. As a certified STEM school it offers opportunities ranging from junior robotics for kindergartners through competitive middle school teams as well as Girls Who Code clubs.
Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) serves over 30,000 students through its network of schools according to its official website. IPS provides services for families throughout central Indianapolis according to its official website while focusing on academic excellence with tailored education according to its official website. Racial equity is also highlighted as a core strategic priority by IPS according to its official website. Aleesia Johnson serves as superintendent according to its official website.
In previous years Cold Spring qualified multiple teams for world championships including five teams in 2025.
