Banning Elementary, Middle School Students Excel In Science, History

BANNING, CA —Students across Banning were honored this week for outstanding work in History and Science.

The Banning Unified School District hosted its annual Science Fair and History Day Recognition Ceremony at the Banning High School Performing Arts Center, celebrating the achievements of students who excelled at the district level in the Science Fair and History Day competitions. "Students were awarded medals and certificates for their hard work and dedication," a spokesperson for the district said.

The ceremony highlighted outstanding projects from both competitions, showcasing creativity, innovation, and a commitment to academic excellence. These exceptional students now have the opportunity to advance to the county level, where their projects will compete against other top students in Riverside County through the Riverside County Office of Education.

Superintendent Terrance Davis expressed his pride in the students, stating, “These students exemplify the spirit of academic excellence in Banning USD. Their hard work, creativity, and passion for learning are truly inspiring, and we are excited to see them represent our District at the county level.”

History Day Overview and Winners
National History Day (NHD) is a year-long educational program for students in grades 4 through 12, according to the district. For 2025, the theme is "Rights & Responsibilities in History."

Students selected historical topics, conducted in-depth research, and created projects that analyzed their significance. Winners advance through a series of competitions, from local to national levels.

Individual Projects
● 1st Place: Rosa Parks – Central Elementary School (Angeli Gonzalez)
● 2nd Place: Rosa Parks – Central Elementary School (Peyton Moore)
● 3rd Place: Mexican War of Independence 1810 – Hemmerling Elementary School
(Gabriel Rodriguez)

Group Projects
● 1st Place: Harriet Tubman – Hemmerling Elementary School (Alaiah Barbosa, Lauren
Sphabmixay, Juliet Cruz Flores)
● 2nd Place: Ruby Bridges Changes Education – Hoffer Elementary School (Genesis
Stewart, Eliana Garcia, Kiona Cameron, Isaziah Allen, Ethan Frausto)
● 3rd Place: Restoring Native Traditions – Hemmerling Elementary School (Ella Brock,
Melanie Avila)

Science and Engineering Fair Overview and Winners
The Science and Engineering Fair provides students the opportunity to showcase their
creativity and scientific knowledge. Projects are evaluated on scientific method, clarity,
originality, and presentation. Winners advance from district to county, state, and even
international competitions, such as the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).

Elementary Division
● 1st Place: Fountain of Truth – Hemmerling Elementary School (Zaden Zamudio &
Melanie Avila)
● 2nd Place: Pop! – Central Elementary School (Nayana Williams)
● 3rd Place: Stain, Stain Go Away – Central Elementary School (Melanie Gutierrez)

Middle School Division
● 1st Place: Which Method of Apple Slice Preservation is Most Successful Without
Compromising Taste – Nicolet Middle School (Elizabeth Scott-Magedman)
● 2nd Place: Plant Growth – Nicolet Middle School (Anabelle Ortiz & Darla Orosco)
● 3rd Place: What Object Has More Bacteria: A Phone Screen, a Toilet Seat, or a Door
Knob – Nicolet Middle School (Anthony Thomas)