Founders Classical Academy – Rogers Wins at NW Arkansas Regional Science and Engineering Fair

Earlier this month, several of our Founders Classical Academy – Rogers students traveled to the University of Arkansas to compete in the NW Arkansas Regional Science and Engineering Fair (NWARSEF), winning a total of 15 awards. NWARSEF aims to endorse STEM literacy and increase STEM career awareness in Northwest Arkansas through inquiry and problem/project-based learning. The competition showcases innovative student presentations, exploring STEM disciplines that apply student knowledge gained from extensive research.

Rogers students arrived prepared to present their thorough findings on creative STEM explorations. Student presentations explored a range of research like what happens to the air pressure inside a soda can when submerged in various water temperatures, the complex connections between the brain and music melody, and even the science behind if two objects of different weights get dropped at the same height, which will fall faster.

Presentations also included an in-depth look at quantum engagement and mechanics, demonstrating what it is and how it works. Another student, seventh-grade Thalya Sampelly, who was awarded the competition Woman Geoscientist Award, presented their extensive research on the tornado radar, providing a detailed analysis of its uses, efficiency, and model.

“Science fair projects are a great illustration of classical education,” said campus Lead Science Teacher and coordinator for the event, Emily Vickers. “The projects exemplify our Latin motto: Multum non-Multa, meaning much, not many. Having a strong foundation in critical thinking and scientific methodologies, students can let their curiosity and wondering direct their research. As a result, they develop a deeper understanding of their topic, satisfy their curiosity, and competently present their discoveries.” 

“It was such an honor to see these students rewarded for their hard work,” Vickers added.

Founders Classical Academy – Rogers Headmaster Heather Arabie says the campus participation in the NWARSEF fostered an even greater sense of community among students.

“The students worked many hours to prepare for this event, meeting weekly with Mrs. Vickers and our other science teachers. I am proud of their perseverance and desire to complete their projects with excellence. This was also a wonderful experience for student interactions and relationships,” said Arabie. “Being a K-12 campus, it is a tremendous gift to see our older students guiding and supporting our younger students.” 

Founders Classical Academies are committed to providing future leaders with a nurturing environment for students to thrive and succeed and develop a lifelong passion for learning. Students are immersed in a rigorous classical curriculum that encourages them to become thoughtful, rational thinkers prepared to flourish. It is evident that the environment and students one can find at Founders Classical Academy – Rogers is no exception.

“It is an honor that we can provide students with a rigorous and classical-focused curriculum that empowers them to achieve incredible heights, like those demonstrated by our students at the NWARSEF,” Arabie said.

ResponsiveEd joins Founders Classical Academy – Rogers in expressing our immense pride and celebration for these talented students — future scientists, technologists, mathematicians, and engineers. Congratulations!

First Place, Physics and Astronomy – Middle Division

• Hudson Johnson, Fifth Grade
• Abel Thomas, Fifth Grade
• Aaron Mathew, Fifth Grade

First Place, Chemistry – Middle Division

• Sree Prajwal Pichikala, Fifth Grade
• Pardhasarathi Makkena, Fifth Grade

First Place, Overall Winner – Middle Division

• Sebastian Garza, Fifth Grade

First Place, Biochemistry – Middle Division

• Vaibhav Bathrinath, Fifth Grade
• Siddharth Billa, Fifth Grade

First Place, Computer Science – Middle Division

• Vedanth Attili, Sixth Grade
• Ethan Li, Sixth Grade

First Place, Earth Science – Woman Geoscientist Award

• Thalya Sampelly, Seventh Grade

Second Place, Physics and Astronomy – Middle Division

• Aarshabh Davalbhakta, Sixth Grade
• Harish Makkena, Sixth Grade

Second Place, Electrical and Mechanical – Middle Division

• Federico Chavarria, Fifth Grade
• Kellen Patrick, Fifth Grade

Third Place, Physics and Astronomy – Middle Division

• Darsh Tarway, Sixth Grade

Third Place, Psychology – Senior Division

• Grayson Lyle, Tenth Grade

Honorable Mention, Chemistry – Junior Division

• Jaswant Ragavendran, Fifth Grade
• Srihan Ranabothu, Fifth Grade
• Vivan Shivhare, Fifth Grade

Honorable Mention, Psychology – Junior Division

• Spoorthi Yalla, Seventh Grade

Find a Founders Classical Academy campus near you to learn about the unique educational opportunities these campuses offer their students. For more information or to apply at Founders Classical Academy – Rogers, visit foundersclassical.com/Rogers.