Twenty-one elementary students from Newton County Schools took their curiosity, creativity and problem-solving skills to the state stage and delivered outstanding results.
Representing nine schools across the district, these young scholars competed at the Georgia College & State University K–5 State Science and Engineering Fair in Milledgeville on March 12, joining more than 450 elementary students from across Georgia and competing among a total of 331 science and engineering projects. Through projects that explored everything from bacteria and energy to animal behavior and environmental science, Newton County students demonstrated an impressive depth of research and understanding well beyond their grade levels.
Their hard work paid off in a big way.
Competing against hundreds of students from across the state, more than half of Newton County Schools’ participants—12 out of 21 students—earned top honors at the state level. This remarkable achievement reflects both the strength of the district’s science instruction and the dedication of its students. From first-place finishes and “Best of Show” recognition to Top 10% distinctions and specialty awards, Newton County students stood out among their peers for both innovation and presentation.
During the competition, students engaged in formal judging sessions where they presented their research, explained their methodologies and defended their findings. Projects were evaluated on scientific rigor, creativity, and communication skills—areas in which Newton County students excelled. Beyond competition, students also participated in hands-on STEM activities, collaborating with peers and engaging in real-world engineering and science challenges.
Newton County Schools celebrates the following students who earned honors at the 2026 Elementary State Science and Engineering Fair [Name (School, grade) award “project”]:
Primary Division Winners (Grades K-2):
- Makayla O’Neill (East Newton Elementary, 2nd grade) Grand Top 10% and Best of Show (Primary Division), “Will Food or Treats Encourage Chickens to Learn at a Faster Rate?”
- Kane Whitaker (Newton County STEAM Academy, 2nd grade) 1st place, “Magnet vs. Plastic: The Ultimate Cleanup Showdown”
- Kennedie Hicks (Newton County STEAM Academy, 2nd grade) 2nd Place and Best of Medical and Health Sciences, “Sing a Song: Feel the Beat”
Elementary Division Winners (Grades 3-5)
- Kennedy Carlock (Newton County STEAM Academy, 3rd grade) Grand Top 10% and Best of Class: 3rd Grade, “Sprays, Scents, and Sanitizer: Testing Everyday Germs on E. Coli”
- Ashton Phyall (Newton County STEAM Academy, 3rd grade) Grand Top 10%, “Energy Challenge”
- Felicity Phyall (Newton County STEAM Academy, 5th grade) Grand Top 10%, “The Reverb Reversal”
- Mya Taylor (Livingston Elementary, 5th grade) 1st Place “Giving “Bact” to the Community”
- Tenley Johnston (Mansfield Elementary, 3rd grade) 2nd place, “Soggy Science”
- Rudra Talati (Newton County STEAM Academy, 4th grade) 3rd place, “Water Fountain with No Electricity”
- Leila Ellis (Fairview Elementary, 5th grade) 3rd place, “Slime Time:
- Jaxson Gilbert (Flint Hill Elementary, 5th grade) 3rd place, “When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Electricity!”
- Ryan Crawford (Livington Elementary, 3rd grade) Excellence in Earth Science Award, “Weather on Model Train”
“These students exemplify what happens when curiosity is nurtured and learning is made meaningful,” said Dr. Ashante Everett, NCS assistant superintendent for Teaching and Learning. “At such a young age, they are already asking thoughtful questions, applying scientific practices, and communicating their ideas with confidence. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and grateful to our families and teachers who support this level of learning every day.”