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Oley Valley SD students place at BCIU STEM challenge; board honors retiring teacher Mrs. Roman
Summary
Elementary and middle school teams placed in the BCIU STEM design challenge; the board and community recognized Mrs. Roman’s retirement and the students’ achievements, with several teams describing sustainable factory and turbine prototypes tied to UN sustainability goals.
The Oley Valley School District board recognized students who competed in the BCIU STEM design challenge and honored Mrs. Roman, a retiring gifted teacher, at its April 14 meeting.
Kevin Conrad introduced the tribute to Mrs. Roman, saying, “I have always enjoyed your special projects like 3D design and researched,” and credited her with supporting his accelerated path in math and engineering. The board and audience thanked Mrs. Roman for her years with the OVIP gifted program.
Student teams that competed described projects tied to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 12 (responsible consumption and production). Presentations included an extruder prototype built from recycled plastics and solar power, a turbine-based ‘Pennsylvania Power Planners’ concept that the students said could reduce carbon footprint and use biofuel feedstocks, and a ‘STEM gems’ sustainable brick factory design using recycled rubber and plastics and wind generation. Teachers and the superintendent praised the students’ work; the board invited the teams to greet members after their presentations.
Why it matters: student STEM competitions showcase practical design and engineering learning, strengthen community–school ties and provide visible recognition for district staff. The board also recognized Laura Ryan, the district nominee for the Annie Sullivan Award for educators who serve students with disabilities.
The board thanked all participants and noted that the district will continue to highlight student achievements in upcoming communications and events.
