Eighth graders bring World Cup magic to life at North Kansas City Schools through animatronics

Rising eighth graders at Maple Park and Northgate middle schools gave the World Cup a high-tech makeover by building custom animatronics inspired by the competing international soccer teams. Created at North Kansas City Schools’ Future Ready Lab, this impressive STEM project served as the students’ introduction to the Design, Innovation & Technology pathway before they head to high school. As ‪@KMBC‬ shows, the unique showcase also featured a special tribute to Kansas City Sports Commission President and Winnetonka alumna Kathy Nelson, who helped bring the tournament to the city.

North Kansas City Schools/KMBC 9, June 25, 2026