A small group of Snoqualmie Middle School 8th graders made an impressive first appearance at the Washington Science Olympiad on March 7 in Kelso, Washington, earning multiple medals across a wide range of STEM events despite having just one month to prepare.
The team, Ansh Agrawal, David Panev, Ibrahim Al‑Mishari, Sam Jensen, and Shrey Talathi, entered the competition independently with support from three parent coaches. With only five students, far below the typical 15‑member team size, each competitor took on an unusually heavy event load, participating in Boomilever, Potions & Poisons, Heredity, Helicopter, Disease Detectives, Crime Busters, Metric Mastery, Codebusters, Rocks & Minerals, Water Quality, and Write It Do It.
As first‑time competitors, the students approached the day with modest expectations. Their goal was simply to understand what a science competition felt like. Some events went better than they hoped; others were disappointing. But throughout the highs and lows, the teammates supported one another with kindness, regrouping after tough rounds, celebrating small victories, and sharing moments that became some of their favorite memories of the day.
Their final results included:
- Silver – Disease Detectives
- Bronze – Codebusters
- Bronze – Metric Mastery
- 4th – Heredity
- 5th – Boomilever
- 5th – Potions & Poisons
- 6th – Rocks & Minerals
A Welcoming Community for Newcomers
Parents and students described the competition atmosphere as warm and encouraging. Volunteers were enthusiastic, fellow competitors were friendly, and the event fostered a sense of shared excitement about science.
During the awards ceremony, officials made a point of celebrating every team, especially newcomers.
“The officials were so wholesome and uplifting. Our students left feeling proud and excited to come back again next year,” one parent coach said.
While this year’s effort was entirely parent‑organized, the students’ enthusiasm and the memories they brought home reflect a growing interest in hands‑on STEM opportunities among Snoqualmie Valley youth.
For these five 8th graders, the day offered more than medals. It gave them a chance to test their skills, support one another, and discover the joy of competitive science. They’re already looking forward to returning next year with experience, confidence, and a deeper understanding of what Science Olympiad has to offer.
Featured Image Ansh, Sam, David, Ibrahim& Shrey