Okaloosa County Students Recognized for Achievements at State Science Fair

Fifteen students from Okaloosa County Schools earned awards and recognition at the State Science Fair, held from March 25-27 at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland, Florida. Competing against nearly 700 students statewide, the participants from Okaloosa County received honors across multiple categories and special awards.

Competition Results

Students from local schools placed in several categories:

• Eva Stenstad, Ruckel Middle School – 2nd place in Intelligent Machines
• Brantley Lane, STEMM Academy – 4th place in Engineering
• Ian Allen, STEMM Academy – 2nd place in Physics
• Moria Reyenga, STEMM Academy – 3rd place in Earth and Environmental Science
• Ryan Gregg, STEMM Academy – 3rd place in Engineering
• Diego Escobar, STEMM Academy – Honorable Mention in Engineering

Special Recognitions

In addition to category placements, several students received special awards:

• Eva Stenstad, Ruckel Middle School – Nomination to Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge
• Anthony Doyle, STEMM Academy – Monroe County Award and NASA Award in Intelligent Machines
• Ian Allen, STEMM Academy – Nomination to Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge

Superintendent Marcus Chambers acknowledged the students’ accomplishments, stating that their success reflects their dedication and the strength of STEM education in Okaloosa County. “I am immensely proud of the dedication, ingenuity, and perseverance our students displayed at the State Science Fair,” the superintendent says. “These young scientists represent the future of innovation, and I have no doubt they will continue to accomplish incredible things. Congratulations to all on this well-deserved recognition!”

The event featured nearly 700 participants from across Florida, providing an opportunity for students to present their research and compete at a high level. The recognition of Okaloosa County students highlights their commitment to STEM fields and the educational opportunities available in the district.