Okaloosa Students Win Big at the State Science Fair

Brantley Lane, an 8th grader at Okaloosa STEMM Academy, not only earned first place but was also named a recipient of the Ying Scholar Award, one of just four students statewide to receive the honor. The award, considered a “Best in Show” distinction for middle school projects, includes a commemorative plaque and a $500 prize.

Benjamin Nusimow, an 8th grader at Ruckel Middle School, also captured first place in the Biomedical and Health Sciences Junior Division. His project, focused on improving skin cancer detection using a logistic regression model and geometric analysis, earned additional recognition from the Northeast Florida Regional Science and Engineering Fair.

In total, 12 of the 15 Okaloosa students who advanced to the state level brought home 16 awards, including special recognitions and cash prizes.

Jennifer Cook, the district’s Science Fair Coordinator, said the accomplishments reflect both the students’ hard work and the strength of local academic programs.

“This is a huge accomplishment to make it to a state-level competition,” Cook said. “I am so proud of all of our students and so excited for those who heard their names called for an award at State.”

Several other students earned category awards and recognitions across a wide range of disciplines:

Aimi Frasca of Northwest Florida Ballet Académie placed third in Environmental Engineering, while Arianna Lopez earned recognition in Intelligent Machines, Robotics, and Systems Software.

From Niceville High School, Ian Allen received recognition in Physics and Astronomy, and Alexis Cole was honored with the Monroe Marine Conservation Award in Earth and Environmental Sciences.

Students from Okaloosa STEMM Academy also saw strong results. Nolan Kirk earned the Suwanee Valley Award and recognition in Plant Sciences; Moira Reyenga placed fourth in Environmental Engineering; Calvin Fortner received the Brevard South Award; and Ryan Gregg earned an honorable mention in Engineering.

Other honorees included Anna Claire Belk and Aviana Sheldon, who were recognized in Biomedical Sciences and Physics and Astronomy, respectively.

Superintendent Marcus Chambers said the results highlight the district’s commitment to academic excellence.

“We are incredibly proud of these students for their hard work, curiosity, and excellence,” Chambers said. “Their success reflects not only their dedication, but also the support of their teachers, families, and schools.”

District leaders say the strong showing at the state level underscores the growing emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and math education across Okaloosa County schools.