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Area students test their skills and knowledge at the West Tennessee Science Olympiad

By Victoria Brown

Two students pose with a forensics project at the regional Science Olympiad Tournament.
Two students pose with a forensics project at the
regional Science Olympiad Tournament.

Southwest Tennessee Community College hosted students from across West Tennessee during the regional Science Olympiad Tournament on March 2, 2024.

The annual STEM competition, which took place at the Union Avenue Campus, gave students the opportunity to show off their talents and knowledge through several unique projects and displays. The projects focused on technology, engineering, and earth and natural sciences.

Students from six area middle and high schools participated in the tournament. Competing teams tested hand-made devices, conducted live experiments, and answered scientific questions.

Dr. Marjorie Rothschild, assistant professor of natural sciences, was this year’s primary organizer of the event.

“Science Olympiad provides students with a chance to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in all STEM areas,” Rothschild said. “The skills learned help students succeed in college and beyond, no matter what their major field of study.”

Throughout the event, judges surveyed projects in various divisions and gave student groups scores based on project requirements. The tournament wrapped up with an evening awards ceremony, where judges announced which schools will move on to the state's tournament in Knoxville, Tennessee.

David Joseph, an eighth-grade student at Houston Middle School, was a part of a winning team that will compete in the state tournament. Joseph participated in the Air Trajectory, Code Busters, Fast Facts, and Anatomy & Physiology divisions. Joseph shared that he participated in the tournament because he enjoys science and hopes to work in the field as a professional one day.  

Daasritha Dutti, a sophomore at White Station High School, also participated in the tournament. Dutti’s team competed in several divisions and will also head to the state tournament. “It’s a good way to hone your skills, but still be with your friends and have fun at the same time," Dutti said.

Congratulations to all of the winners and thank you to all participants.

A group of students from Houston Middle School proudly hold their Science Olympiad awards.
A group of students from Houston Middle School proudly hold their Science Olympiad awards.