Plano Independent School District (ISD) students made their marks at the Texas Science and Engineering Fair (TXSEF) in College Station. From March 22-23, 2024, more than 1,200 students competed across various scientific categories, with 13 students from Plano ISD standing out among the contenders, earning 23 awards and distinctions.
Prisha Bhat, a Plano East Senior High School student, claimed the coveted 'Best in the State of Texas' award in life science, senior division, for her project on aqua-arsenic remediation. The project showcased innovative methods to enhance plant tolerance to drought and arsenic contamination.
In addition to Bhat's success, 11 senior division students from Plano ISD secured top positions in their categories, earning spots at the Governor’s Science and Technology Champions Academy. Moreover, one junior division student placed first in their category and has been nominated to apply to the Thermo Fisher Science Junior Innovators Challenge.
Two seniors from Plano ISD also qualified for the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), joining seven qualifiers from the Dallas Regional Science and Engineering Fair. They will present their projects on the global stage in Dallas, Texas, from May 12 to 17, 2024.
Special awards were handed out to various projects. Among them were Hiruni Wansapura from Robinson Middle School, who received the 'Engineers of Tomorrow Award' for her work in environmental engineering, and Andy Qin from Plano West Senior High School, who received the Samsung Award for his project in systems software.
Recently, Faizan Zaki, a Rice Middle School student in Plano ISD, won the Dallas Regional Spelling Bee for the third time, securing his spot at the National Scripps Spelling Bee. Zaki, who triumphed with the word "kurgan," will represent his school and district at the national competition from May 28 to May 30, 2024.
Click here for a detailed list of Plano ISD Texas Science and Engineering Fair winners.
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