WILLIAMS, CA (MPG) – Colusa County students showcased science and engineering projects during the Colusa County Science and Engineering Fair on Friday, Feb. 3, at the Colusa County Education Village multipurpose room.
The fair, hosted by the Colusa County Office of Education, brought together students from across the county to present projects focused on real-world problems and scientific inquiry. Community volunteers served as judges for the competitive divisions.
Emiliano Guzman, an 11th-grade student at Colusa High School, earned first place in the high school division for his project, “Measuring Soil Hardness under Different Levels of Compaction.” His work examined how varying degrees of soil compaction affect hardness, a topic with direct agricultural relevance.
In the middle school division, Abigail Alcaraz, an eighth-grade student at Johnson Junior High School, took first place for her project, “What Makes Earth Habitable.” She was the only student competing in the judged category for grades six through eight.
Second place in the high school division went to Santiago C., Ronan B. and Fernando V., all ninth-grade students at Colusa High School. Third place honors were awarded to Camila A. and Evelyn L., both 11th-grade students at Colusa High School.
Projects presented at the fair reflected a wide range of scientific interests, including volcanoes, dental hygiene, deforestation, mosquito control and solar systems.
“Our goal is to strengthen STEM learning in our community, spark creativity, and give students an experience that connects them to the larger world of science and innovation,” said Lexi Cabral, professional development coordinator for the Colusa County Office of Education, during opening remarks.
The fair also recognized educators for their commitment to science education. Scientific Excellence Awards, co-sponsored by SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, were presented to Lizbeth Aceves, a fifth-grade teacher in Williams; Maria Ocampo, a third-grade teacher in Maxwell; and Arminda Contreras, a fifth-grade teacher at Arbuckle Elementary School.
Younger students also participated through hands-on activities. The First 5 Colusa Children & Families Commission provided tinker stations designed to introduce early learners to basic science and engineering concepts.
Veronica Sandoval thanked students, educators and volunteers for their involvement and encouraged continued participation in future fairs.
“We look forward to the next generation of thinkers and problem solvers,” Sandoval said.
Organizers said the annual fair is intended to build long-term interest in science, technology, engineering and math while fostering collaboration across Colusa County schools.