John Diefenbaker Senior School victorious at third-annual NII Science Olympics

Largest event yet, with 18 teams of high school students from across the region

Victory belongs to Hanover’s John Diefenbaker Senior School (JDSS), as four students emerged triumphant at this year’s Science Olympics, hosted by the Nuclear Innovation Institute (NII)—mastering a series of inventive science-based tasks and earning top honours at Friday’s competition.

Champions of the third-annual NII Science Olympics from Hanover’s John Diefenbaker Senior School. [L-R] Students Ava Moric, Millie Montanez, Sebastian Watt and Cole Schenk.

Now in its third year, the Science Olympics gathered 18 teams of sharp-minded high school students from Bruce, Grey and Huron counties at the NII Advance Technology Campus on May 9.

The day was packed with hands-on challenges that tested critical thinking, teamwork and scientific smarts from start to finish.

JDSS “Team B” was in ninth place after five preliminary challenges—before coming from behind in the final event. JDSS “Team A” and FE Madill Secondary School “Team A” from Wingham placed second and third, respectively, to round out the podium finishers.

Taking home the coveted Science Olympics championship belt, the winning team is made up of students Ava Moric, Millie Montanez, Sebastian Watt and Cole Schenk. When asked to comment on the day, Cole simply said: “Science class rules!”

“First and second—what a day for John Diefenbaker Senior School!” said science and math teacher Basil Yeldhose. Science teacher Rachael Murray agreed: “It’s such a fun day to work collaboratively and creatively in a space outside the classroom.”

With challenges spanning multiple scientific disciplines like physics, biology, chemistry, math, Earth science and more, this groundbreaking event plays a crucial role in bridging the gap in opportunities between urban and rural high school students in the region.

“What an exciting mix of energy, curiosity and competition,” said Phillip Craig, Director of STEM Education at NII. “It was incredible to see each team rise to the occasion with such focus and collaboration.”

He continued, “We’re especially thankful to Bruce Power for helping make this event possible. Their support—and the support of all NII Founding Members—plays a big role in inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders in our communities.”

The Nuclear Innovation Institute is grateful to Science Olympics sponsor Bruce Power, with support from NII Founding Members (AtkinsRéalis, Bruce Power, BWXT, Cameco, E.S. Fox, Kinectrics, Power Workers’ Union, and the Town of Saugeen Shores) and this year’s final challenge sponsor, Canadian Union of Skilled Workers.

“The NII Science Olympics offers an exceptional platform for our students to demonstrate their remarkable creativity and problem-solving abilities,” said Keith Lefebvre, Bluewater District School Board Superintendent of Education.

He added: “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the teachers and NII for organizing this event, allowing students to showcase their immense potential. Such events are instrumental in preparing our students for future career opportunities, where they will need to excel as collaborators, innovative problem solvers and effective communicators.”