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Central Falls students given board approval to attend national MESA competition
Summary
Two Central Falls High School students presented a prototype smartwatch that helps users break harmful habits and won top placements at the Rhode Island MESA competition; the board approved their travel to nationals in Maryland.
Two Central Falls High School students, Ricardo and Neline, presented their MESA engineering project — a prototype smartwatch they described as "a type of smartwatch that is going to send a vibration when your heart rate" to help users interrupt harmful habits — and asked the board for permission to travel to nationals in Maryland.
The board heard an introductory video and technical description, including plans for a companion app and 3D-printed prototypes. Superintendent Stephanie (presenting the item) noted the team had swept the Rhode Island MESA competition, taking first through third place, and recommended the board grant out-of-state travel with two chaperones (Miss Murray and Mr. Sylvia). Board member Hugo Figueroa moved the travel approval; the motion was seconded and passed by voice vote with all present signaling "I." The board wished the students luck.
Why it matters: The board’s approval lets student teams represent Central Falls at a national competition, providing exposure, experience and potential support for continued STEM work. The board also emphasized cost containment: students said they planned to keep device manufacturing costs under $100 to make the device more accessible.
The next steps: The district will process standard travel approvals and coordinate chaperones; the students will continue refining the prototype and app for the nationals.
