New Mexico Supercomputing Challenge
Eligibility
New Mexico middle and high school students in grades 6-12. Teams of 2-5 students work with a teacher-sponsor to design and implement a computational solution to a real-world problem. All NM schools are eligible to participate.
Program Goals
The NM Supercomputing Challenge engages students in computational thinking, programming, and problem-solving through a year-long project. Students develop a computational model addressing a real-world challenge — exactly the kind of applied CS and AI literacy that Forward Education kits support.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
Registration and team formation by September 30, 2026. Teacher-sponsors register their school and students at supercomputingchallenge.org. Teams work throughout the year on their project, culminating in a spring competition.
Cycle Notes
Annual cycle. September 30, 2026 registration deadline. Year-long competition culminating in spring. Monitor supercomputingchallenge.org for future cycles.
Grant Award Amount
$40 per student to help cover participation costs. Top teams receive scholarships and prizes. The primary value is the educational experience and competitive recognition rather than the per-student stipend.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- Coding for Good Kit — an all-in-one coding, robotics, and AI literacy toolkit using micro:bit for real-world challenges
- CodeCTRL controller with display for micro:bit — a handheld game-style controller for interactive games and physical computing
- Climate Action Kit — a beginner-friendly STEM kit combining micro:bit sensors to code solutions for climate change and sustainability
- Forward Education Learning Platform — curriculum-aligned STEM lessons, coding tutorials, career profiles, and PD courses
- CHARGE Battery Pack for micro:bit — a compact rechargeable power solution that makes micro:bit projects fully portable
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the NM Supercomputing Challenge work?
Teams of 2-5 NM students in grades 6-12 work with a teacher-sponsor to design a computational solution to a real-world problem over a full school year.
What is the registration deadline?
September 30, 2026.
What do students work on?
A computational model addressing a real-world challenge — climate, health, community, or any domain. Applied CS and programming skills are the core.
Is any school in NM eligible?
Yes — any New Mexico middle or high school can participate.
How can Forward Education help?
Our Coding for Good Kit and CodeCTRL controller support the hands-on computational thinking and programming skills that Supercomputing Challenge participants develop.
Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals.
- Curriculum alignment documents — New Mexico standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing
- Letters of support
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence
