LTHS Science Olympians strike success

The Lyons Township High School Science Olympiad Team finished in first place at the recent 17-school Valparaiso University invite. Every varsity member earned a gold, silver or bronze medal.

LT had a great showing overall, with standout competitions by senior Adam Hemauer, freshman Chris Hemauer, and senior Cecelia Smith, all of Western Springs, who earned gold medals in all of their events.

According to sponsor Bruce Falli, “The Science Olympiad team shows promise this year as we try to improve our place in the state from 4th last year. We are a younger team than usual, and we have developed depth where our JV squad is beating many varsity squads at these invitationals.”

“Our biggest improvement has been the increased consistency in our engineering events led by Captain Michael Le, as well as Noah and Jonah Reardon. Perhaps the best part about this team is their joy in learning. Each invite has had a theme developed by the captains where the entire team dresses up. So far we have dressed as 90’s Rappers, ugly Christmas, and farmers,” Falli added.

The Lions have two invitationals left before Regional and State competitions. Their most recent win demonstrated they have the talent to go to Nationals this year, Falli said. “We just need the discipline, time, and structure to maximize that talent,” he added.

Science Olympiad consists of rigorous academic interscholastic competitions that include a series of team events, which students prepare for during the year. These challenging and motivational events are balanced between the various science disciplines. There is also a balance between events requiring knowledge of science concepts, process skills and science applications. Students benefit from this team by having a much more direct experience with a topic they may want to pursue in college. Many students start an event from scratch and develop skills and knowledge that they will retain for a lifetime.

Complete list of LT award winners.