Science Olympiad challenges students with STEM activities

More than 1,500 local students challenged themselves and each other by constructing roller coasters, launching rockets, solving crimes, building robots, and even making cheese curds during the 32nd annual Region 12 Science Olympiad tournament March 19.

Presented by Grand Valley’s Regional Math and Science Center (RMSC), this year's tournament saw students from 45 middle schools and 25 high schools across West Michigan showcase their knowledge in the STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) fields, including biology, earth science, chemistry, and physics during various contests.

"It's vital for students to experience a variety of different opportunities so they can make informed decisions about their future careers," said Chelsea Ridge, RMSC math program coordinator. "Our hope is that students will have a positive experience with challenging STEM topics, so maybe one day our Science Olympiad students will walk on the moon or even cure cancer."

Sixteen teams of middle and high school students will now advance to the state Science Olympiad tournament April 30 in Lansing. Below is a full list of winners:

Middle School Teams

1. Lakewood

2. Chandler Woods

3. Allendale

4. Plymouth Christian

5. Jenison Junior High

6. Harbor Lights

7. East Grand Rapids

8. White Pines

9. Macatawa Bay

10. Riley Street

High School Teams

1. Grand Rapids Christian

2. Grand Haven

3. West Ottawa

4. Plymouth Christian

5. Allendale

6. Forest Hills Central

Science Olympiad is an international non-profit organization devoted to improving the quality of science education by increasing student interest in the field, while providing recognition for outstanding achievements in science education by both students and teachers.

During Grand Valley’s first Science Olympiad Tournament in 1984, only 26 teams competed from schools in Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon, Allegan and Oceana counties. Now, approximately 70 teams sign up to compete each year.

For more information about the Science Olympiad Tournament, contact Chelsea Ridge, RMSC math program coordinator, at (616) 331-3172, or visit the RMSC website.