DoorDash Robotics Education Program Launches Inaugural Class in Mesa, AZ

MESA, AZ - The DoorDash Robotics Academy, a pilot education program that brings cutting-edge autonomy into the classroom or after-school space, kicked off its first session this week at the STEM Academy at Red Mountain Ranch. The program uses Dot, DoorDash's autonomous delivery robot, as a real-world example to help students explore how robots "think," make decisions, and operate in everyday environments. This class will include 30 students across the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades.

The design and curriculum of the program is informed by a listening session hosted in January with Dot, where input was gathered from educators, students, school leaders, and community partners on the future of robotics education and the role real-world autonomous technology can play in the classroom.

"We're excited to help students see technologies like robotics and AI as something they can understand, shape, and be part of," said Sueli Shaw, Head of Social Impact at DoorDash. "By connecting what they're learning at school to how things move through the real world we hope to spark curiosity, build confidence, and open doors to future career pathways."

"Our school is thrilled to partner with DoorDash and get started on this exciting robotics program. Using structured lessons, real-world examples, and Dot, our students will learn the autonomy concepts they need to kick start a new love and understanding of robotics," said Principal Jaclyn Bycott.

DoorDash Robotics Academy

Whether integrated as a focused in-classroom unit or used to power a robotics club, the DoorDash Robotics Academy programming, created in partnership with Sphero, a K-12 robotics organization, is designed to be modular and low-friction, enhancing existing STEM goals without adding instructional burden. Educators consistently report that hands-on robotics is one of the most engaging ways to build student confidence and interest in STEM. At the same time, opportunities to explore real-world autonomy and decision-making are still emerging in K-12 education.

This program is designed to:

• Support student learning through applied, real-world robotics concepts

• Spark curiosity about future STEM and STEM-adjacent careers

• Give communities a practical way to engage with emerging technologies

Students will experience:

• Hands-on robotics challenges using Sphero hardware focused on logic, problem-solving, and decision-making

• Exposure to how autonomous systems operate in delivery and logistics

• Career exploration content spanning engineering, operations, policy, and product roles

• A Dot demonstration from the DoorDash Labs team

The robotics club has received a custom Sphero hardware kit, technical support, and educator guides as well as a grant to support club needs, funded by DoorDash. Schools keep all robotics materials after the pilot for future use.

About Sphero

Sphero is transforming PK-12 education with hands-on tools that encourage exploration, imagination, and confidence in STEM, computer science, and CTE skills. With the help of educators around the world, Sphero empowers learners of all backgrounds and abilities to discover their passions while equipping them with the skills they need to be the world's future Changemakers. Learn more at sphero.com.