This article explains the Event Accessibility and Accommodations Policy: the accommodations available to students competing in VEX Robotics Competitions, how to request one, and how requests are reviewed. It is written for coaches, parents, teachers, and other adults associated with a registered team.
Definitions of the terms used here are maintained in the central glossary.
For the other policies that set Global Robotics' competitive standards, see the Code of Conduct, the Youth Protection Policy, and the Safety Policy.
Purpose
Global Robotics and Science Foundation is committed to a competitive environment that is safe, respectful, and accessible to every student. Reasonable accommodations are made, as needed, to adapt a program or event's rules, policies, services, or environment so that every student has an equal opportunity to participate in the VEX Competitions.
Coaches, parents, teachers, or other adults associated with a registered team may request an accommodation for a student team member. This policy explains the accommodations available, how to request one, and how requests are reviewed.
Scope and Applicability
This policy applies to students on registered Global Robotics teams at Global Robotics-sanctioned VEX Robotics Competition events, including VEX V5 and VEX IQ Robotics Competition.
This policy is published in English; translations are provided for convenience, and the English version controls.
Global Robotics may change, update, or add to this policy from time to time. A new version takes effect when it is published, and it replaces the one before it.
Requesting an Accommodation
To request an accommodation, complete the Global Robotics Accommodation Request Form, carefully and in full. Some requests may need an additional supplemental form. Submit the request within the minimum timeline for the relevant category, described below.
The Global Robotics Accommodations Team will reach out within 7 days of submission. Approved accommodations are valid for the time specified in the approval.
This form is only for specific accommodation requests. To inform an event host of general team circumstances that do not require a formal accommodation, contact the event host directly using the information provided in that event's listing.
Accommodation Categories and Timelines
Accommodation requests fall into two categories, each with its own minimum notice:
- Game/Event Accommodations – Submitted at least 6 weeks before the event. Covers accommodations such as field access, seating, sensory, mobility, or schedule adjustments.
- Deaf and/or Hard of Hearing (D/HH) Interpreters – Submitted at least 12 weeks before the event. Covers ASL interpreter access at fields, judging interviews, and other designated competition areas.
Requests submitted after these minimum windows may not be able to be accommodated in time for the event. Teams are encouraged to submit requests as soon as a need is identified.
Eligible Conditions
Accommodations may be available based on a wide range of physical, mental, visible, and invisible impairments, including but not limited to:
- ADHD
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Chronic medical condition
- Deaf and/or hard of hearing (D/HH); see the dedicated section below
- Learning disability
- Mental health
- Mobility
- Neurological
- Orthopedic
- Visual impairment
Specific accommodations vary and are determined based on the information submitted in the request.
Deaf and/or Hard of Hearing (D/HH) Accommodations
Students who are Deaf or hard of hearing may need specific accommodations to participate fully in competition activities.
ASL Interpreters
Global Robotics may allow an adult interpreter to be present at fields, judging interviews, and other designated competition areas. It is the team's responsibility to work with their school district to provide an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter for extracurricular events, and to determine any local requirements or regulations, which can vary significantly by state. If a team uses a family member or other individual as an interpreter, the arrangement must comply with all applicable local legal requirements. Coaches should carry a letter from the school authorizing the interpreter to be on the field, especially for official competitions, consistent with Americans with Disabilities Act practice.
ASL Interpreters at Game Fields
ASL interpreters are allowed full access to venues to facilitate student participation. The Head Referee will work with interpreters to identify a field location that allows D/HH students to see both the Head Referee and the interpreter, not positioned between the field and the audience.
Visual Cue System
Global Robotics tournament software includes a visual cue system that provides visible countdowns and flashing indicators for drive team members at key match moments. This feature is standard at all events and does not require an accommodation request.
Cochlear Implants and Lip Reading
When a student uses cochlear implants and also relies on lip reading, use of a microphone is permitted at all times during the event. Where possible, the Event Partner should provide a quiet location at the venue for judging interviews with this team. Judges should face the student when speaking with them and, unless medically necessary, remove any face coverings to allow the student to lip read.
Review and Right to Deny
The Global Robotics Accommodations Team reviews all accommodation requests to determine the appropriate accommodation(s) based on the information submitted. Global Robotics reserves the right to deny a request that would fundamentally alter the character of a competition. Denials will include the reason for the decision and, where possible, alternative accommodations that can be offered.
Information submitted through the Accommodation Request Form is used only to evaluate and administer the requested accommodation, and is shared only with Global Robotics staff and event personnel directly involved in implementing it.
Questions
Questions about this policy, or about a submitted request, should be directed to the Global Robotics Accommodations Team at accommodations@globalrobotics.org.