Jefferson High School (JHS) students brought home a first-place win at Fairmont State University's second annual science showdown competition. JHS joined teams from six regional high schools to compete in lab challenges in four fields, including biology, chemistry, physics, and forensics. The event also provided scholarship opportunities for students on the winning teams.
JHS entered two teams into the competition, one of which took first place. Keagan Adams, Jon Mappa, William "Gibbs" Miller, and Zach Overton made up the winning team, and Adams and Miller received $1,000 scholarships to attend Fairmont State.
JHS students Soleil Basham, Claire Burkhardt, Lydia Hayes, and Louisa Pate comprised the second team. Coaches in attendance included Sarah Esker, Madison Palmer, and Dayna Juraschek.
"The Science Showdown is a great opportunity for students to learn more about science-related topics, gain experience collaborating with teammates, and get an idea of what Fairmont State University offers in scientific fields," said Juraschek.
She added that the event helped at least two students in attendance solidify plans to pursue careers in the sciences.
"One chose to finalize their college acceptance in forensic science, and another chose to go into engineering!"