Van Buren County Community School District students had a remarkable showing at the State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa, bringing home 24 awards and earning a spot at one of the most prestigious science competitions in the world.
The fair was held at Hilton Coliseum on the Iowa State University campus in Ames, Iowa, on Thursday, March 26th and Friday, March 27th.
The biggest news out of the competition was that Vesper Druvenga’s high school project was selected to advance to the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, which will be held May 9-15th at the Phoenix Convention Center in Arizona. The event draws young scientists from around the globe to compete across 22 scientific categories, with more than 1,000 finalists and over 1,000 judges participating. Nearly $9 million in awards, prizes, and scholarships are up for grabs, with recognition and support provided by more than 45 professional organizations. The event also includes an Education Outreach Day where local middle and high school students can meet finalists and participate in hands-on STEM activities. Druvenga’s selection to compete among this international field is a significant achievement for both the student and the district.
Science Fair Sponsor Jasmine Padget, who will accompany Druvenga to Phoenix, shared her excitement following the results.
“Holy cow! Our students absolutely crushed it at State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa,” Padget said. “The time, effort, and dedication they poured into their projects this year already made us proud, and then they brought home 24 awards for Van Buren County Community School District. A massive congratulations to Vesper Druvenga, whose high school project was selected to go to the International Science and Engineering Fair in Phoenix, Arizona. This is a HUGE accomplishment and such an exciting opportunity.”
Padget noted that this was her first year back sponsoring the science fair program. “Thank you to everyone who supported, encouraged, and cheered us on along the way,” she said. “Year one was a success, and I’m back doing what I love. We’re just getting started.”
Photos courtesy of the Van Buren County Community School District.
