Rio Rancho students advance diverse research projects at state science fair; one to compete internationally

Dozens of Rio Rancho students were recognized April 27 for advancing from the district research expo to regional and state science competitions, and one student qualified for an international competition, district science staff told the school board.

"My name is Jennifer Miyashiro. I'm the instructional leader of science at Rio Rancho High School," Jennifer Miyashiro told the board as she introduced the students and read project titles that ranged from engineering prototypes and environmental studies to biomedical and data‑security work. Miyashiro said the district’s research expo has fed student projects to the Central New Mexico Science and Engineering Research Challenge and onward to the state fair.

Miyashiro noted that Rachel Taylor qualified to present at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in Phoenix. The board praised students and thanked the many volunteers, judges and teachers that supported project development and competition logistics. Members emphasized that the projects represent independent, student‑driven research and commended the district for supporting a local research expo for about 25 years.

Board members also asked whether participation affected students’ grades; Miyashiro said that requirements vary by course and teachers, and that fair participation itself does not automatically change a student’s academic standing. The board invited students present to step forward for recognition at the meeting.