Olentangy fifth-graders place among top 21 statewide with EV-focused STEM design

Four fifth-grade students from Allen Creek presented their Ohio STEM Learning Network design-challenge project on March 10 to the Olentangy Local Board of Education after being selected among the states top 21 submissions.

Heidi Leeds, assistant principal at Allen Creek, introduced the team and said the project engaged students in a multiweek design process. Shannon Mickens, the schools gifted specialist who led the team, described working side by side with the students as they researched electric-vehicle systems, changed approaches when initial ideas failed, and developed prototypes and a video presentation for the state showcase.

Student presenters described research and industry conversations with THK (a manufacturing partner in Hebron) that shifted their focus from experimenting with battery-chemistry alternatives (sodium-ion vs. lithium-ion) to lowering vehicle weight and adding wheel-mounted wind turbines to power secondary systems (lights and air conditioning) so the main battery lasts longer. Students said splitting into subgroups helped refine two distinct approaches and that the project strengthened their teamwork and communication skills.

Board members praised the studentswork and encouraged future STEM engagement. One board member cautioned students to "get a good lawyer to protect your ideas," reflecting a light-hearted concern about exposing early-stage concepts in a public forum. The superintendent and other board members thanked staff who supported the students, including district staff who provided transportation to the competition.

The board invited the students to remain for the meeting, and members suggested celebrating the accomplishment; no formal action was required. Quotes in this article are taken from the meeting transcript and attributed to speakers identified on the record.