JDSS of Hanover wins third annual NII Science Olympics

Victory went to John Diefenbaker Senior School (JDSS) of Hanover, as four students emerged triumphant at this year’s Science Olympics, hosted by the Nuclear Innovation Institute (NII), Friday, May 9, at the Advanced Technology Campus, located at the Bruce Energy Centre, northwest of Tiverton.

Now in its third year, the event drew 18 teams of sharp-minded high school students from Bruce, Grey and Huron counties for a day packed with hands-on challenges that tested critical thinking, teamwork and scientific smarts from start to finish.

Among the teams, were one from Kincardine District Senior School, two from JDSS, two from Saugeen District Senior School, two from F.E. Madill Secondary School in Wingham, two from Grey Highlands, three from Walkerton, two from Goderich, and four from Owen Sound.

JDSS Team B was in ninth place after five preliminary challenges, before coming from behind in the final event. JDSS Team A and F.E. Madill Team A placed second and third, respectively, to round out the podium finishers.

Taking home the coveted Science Olympics championship belt, the winning team included students Ava Moric, Millie Montanez, Sebastian Watt and Cole Schenk. When asked to comment on the day, Cole simply said, “Science class rules!”

“First and second; what a day for John Diefenbaker Senior School,” said the school's science and math teacher, Basil Yeldhose.

Science teacher Rachael Murray agreed. “It’s such a fun day to work collaboratively and creatively in a space outside the classroom.”

With challenges spanning multiple scientific disciplines, such as physics, biology, chemistry, math, Earth science and more, this ground-breaking event plays a crucial role in bridging the gap in opportunities between urban and rural high school students in the region.



High school students from Owen Sound test their creations in the Falling Slowly challenge at the NII Science Olympics

“What an exciting mix of energy, curiosity and competition,” said Phillip Craig, director of STEM education at the NII. “It was incredible to see each team rise to the occasion with such focus and collaboration.

“We’re especially thankful to Bruce Power for helping make this event possible. Bruce Power's support — and the support of all the NII founding members — plays a big role in inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders in our communities.”

The NII appreciates Science Olympics sponsor Bruce Power, with support from the NII founding members (AtkinsRéalis, Bruce Power, BWXT, Cameco, E.S. Fox, Kinectrics, Power Workers’ Union, and the Town of Saugeen Shores) and this year’s final challenge sponsor, the Canadian Union of Skilled Workers.

“The NII Science Olympics offers an exceptional platform for our students to demonstrate their remarkable creativity and problem-solving abilities,” said Keith Lefebvre, Bluewater District School Board superintendent of education.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the teachers and the NII for organizing this event, allowing students to showcase their immense potential. Such events are instrumental in preparing our students for future career opportunities, where they will need to excel as collaborators, innovative problem-solvers and effective communicators.”