More than 120 young scientists gathered recently at Marley Middle School for the annual Elementary Innovators of Science and Engineering Challenge (ISEC). The challenge hosts two events; the Research Expo, in which students present their science projects to a panel of judges; and the Innovators Olympics, where fifth graders from each school compete in teams of two in five challenges, each focusing on a different domain of STEM.
At the award ceremony held at Marley Middle School on May 4th, winners were announced in each of the events. 
Sebastian Murphy, a third-grade student at Windsor Farm Elementary, was named “Best In Show” at the Research Expo. His project titled “Cracking the Chemistry of Cavities,” in which he engineered a new toothpaste that would scrub teeth and prevent cavities when there is no access to running water, like while camping.
Isabelle Kosack, and Lulia Solomon, representing Crofton Woods Elementary School, won the Overall Team Award at the Innovators Olympics.
The Innovators of Science and Engineering Challenge is an opportunity for students with a focused interest in a STEM-related field to develop and test an experiment or engineering project. The award ceremony is a culmination for students who have advanced from science fairs hosted at individual elementary schools around the county.
The evening included opening remarks from AACPS Deputy Superintendent Dr. Maureen McMahon and Board of Education President Dr. Joanna Tobin, who were both on hand to congratulate all the winners. In addition to the top prizes, county elementary school students earned awards from STEM-related divisions within AACPS. Awards were presented from the STEM office and the offices of Advanced Studies and Programs, Elementary Mathematics, Career and Technical Education, and Environmental Literacy and Outdoor Education. Embreli Pineda, of Jessup Elementary School, won several awards for her project “Radio Waves and Applications.” Additionally, Legends of Learning sponsored a technology integration award. The presenting sponsor, Educational Systems Federal Credit Union, was also present that evening to provide remarks and prizes.
More information on award winners, sponsors, and event pictures can be found here.