Three Minneapolis Junior-Senior High Students participated in the Science Olympiad at Fort Hays State University on March 1. Science Olympiad is a competition comprising 23 events that include earth science, biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering. The program is designed to increase a student’s interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields and provide recognition for outstanding achievement in team events. Over 100 schools participate throughout Kansas.
The Minneapolis Junior High Team, consisting of William McKain and Henry Labes, brought home the 2nd place trophy. May McKain, a 10th-grade student, represented Minneapolis High School and earned 4th place in the high school competition.
According to MJSHS Science Olympiad Sponsor Linda Willoughby, “The program helps students learn that science is not just about memorizing facts but about applying what you know in real-world situations. Our students also have the opportunity to visit a college campus in our area—such an experience exposes them to career possibilities in the wide field of sciences. I once had a former student write me a letter thanking me for helping provide this experience. The former student said that it helped them select their future career.”
This competition deepened students' passion for science and taught them valuable lessons about collaboration, perseverance, and the joy of discovery. Henry Labes reflected, “It was a great experience because we got to meet and work with students from other schools.”
Although preparing for the competition was intense, their hard work paid off. William McKain noted, “We had to ensure all of our paperwork was completed before the competition. All of the effort was worth it because we got to work with teachers from the college—who helped us improve our projects.” When asked what would make next year’s competition even better, William said, “We hope to have more students participate. Numerous students could not go this year because they were ill or could not make the event work with their schedule.”
The 2nd place trophy, now proudly displayed in the MJSHS main office, reminds us of our students’ achievement and the excitement of learning. Moreover, North Ottawa County Public Schools will be represented at the state competition at Wichita State University on April 5. We wish our students the best of luck and look forward to seeing how they perform as they exhibit Lion Pride at the state competition!
Pictured from left to right: May McKain, Henry Labes, and William McKain