Five talented students from Banning Unified School District were recognized for their outstanding science projects at the 2025 Riverside County Science and Engineering Fair, a prestigious event showcasing innovation and discovery from students across the county.
The fair, held annually in Riverside, is a competition of science and engineering projects designed, developed, and displayed by students in grades 4 through 12. This year, 487 students representing 28 affiliate fairs presented 343 projects across 22 subject matter categories. Participants were evaluated by experienced judges based on scientific method, content, originality, and clarity of presentation.
Banning USD’s award-winning students include:
Gold Medalists:
Zaden Zamudio, Hemmerling Elementary School – Fountain of Truth (Environmental Engineering)
Melanie Avila, Hemmerling Elementary School – Fountain of Truth (Environmental Engineering)
Bronze Medalists:
Nayana Williams, Central Elementary School – Pop! (Chemistry)
Anthony Thomas, Nicolet Middle School – What Has More Bacteria, a Cell Phone, a Door Knob, or a Toilet Seat? (Biomedical and Health Sciences)
Elizabeth Scott-Magedman, Nicolet Middle School – Which Method of Apple Slice Preservation is Most Successful Without Compromising Taste? (Chemistry)
“We are so proud of our students for stepping up and competing at such a high level,” said Superintendent Terrence Davis. “Their creativity, dedication, and passion for learning are shining examples of what’s possible when curiosity is encouraged in the classroom and beyond.”
The Riverside County Science and Engineering Fair is affiliated with the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). The competition begins at the school level, advances to local affiliate fairs, and culminates at the county level. County winners may move on to the California State Science and Engineering Fair, and select participants may qualify for the ISEF competition or the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge.
Banning USD congratulates all participating students, families, and educators for their commitment to excellence in STEM learning and discovery.
View Official Release at: https://www.banning.k12.ca.us/page/community-corner