Science Olympiad Goes to State!

Science Olympiad made a trip down to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to compete in the state competition on April 21. They competed at an invitational in Dec., two more in Feb. and the Oakton regional competition in March where they earned fifth place which landed them a spot in the state tournament.

Science Olympiad is a competitive-academic club that’s designed to test student knowledge in all areas of science. Students try out at the beginning of the year, then try out for a specific event and are then separated into varsity and junior varsity teams. They meet every Thursday after school. During meetings, students might build structures, practice laboratory skills or study test material to prepare. Everyone can find something they enjoy. The team competed in 22 out of 23 events at state, including Bridge, Forensics, Forestry and Anatomy.

Earning a spot at state was a big accomplishment for this year’s team. Going back to normal after the pandemic was a hard challenge for students and sponsors.

“We are in a rebuilding year since Science Olympiad was remote for the past two years.  I’m extremely proud of the students who stuck with the team when it was all done over Zoom, but also for the seniors that came out and joined the team to help us rebuild this year,” sponsor and science teacher Michael Boll said.

During the pandemic, Science Olympiad lost many members. However, the team has bounced back post-pandemic and came back better for this year’s state series.

“We didn’t even have competitors to go down to state, so this is like a huge thing for us and a motivator for our kids,” Director of Science Ami LeFevre said.

It’s been a long time since Science Olympiad has been able to meet in person. Competing non-virtually for the first time since 2019 was an experience for old and new members. They left state feeling well-accomplished and they are certainly happy with their results.

“The most memorable experience from State was during the award ceremony when my entire team was on the edge of their seats as we waited for the Write-it-Do-it awards to be announced, and then the excitement after we got third! Overall, the entire state experience was incredible, and I think I speak for everyone when I say we had a great time,” senior Ayesha Patel said.

Niles West congratulates Science Olympiad for their accomplishments, and hopes to see them again at state next year!