There have been big things happening for the future scientists at Sprunica Elementary. Sprunica recently had its second annual Invention Convention event run by science teacher Abby Magner. The Invention Convention is an event in which all 5th-grade scientists work to identify solutions to real-world problems that have yet to be solved.

All fifth-grade students must create an invention that identifies a problem and what their solutions are, as well as an engineered prototype created with materials they had at home.

Magner started this event after being inspired by a similar event she had found online in the summer of 2022. She then brought the first ever Invention Convention to Sprunica in January 2023.

While this is Sprunica’s second year having the Invention Convention, this is the first year that Indiana will hold it as a state level event.

“I applied to be a part of the opportunity and now we are partnered with Indiana 4-H State Invention Convention as one of the only elementary schools in Indiana to compete at state,” Magner said.

This month the top four winners will have the opportunity to go and compete at the state Invention Convention. Local organizations like Big Woods, Chocolate Moose, and Urban Air even donated prizes for the top three inventions.

“A lot of the time students wait until high school to start solving real-world problems, but I believe our elementary school students are also capable of this,” Magner said.

The students worked hard on researching and creating their solutions and were excited to share what they created with their families and friends at the Invention Convention.

“After the top 10 are announced the students feel a sense of accomplishment for either themselves or their friends who placed,” Magner said. “And I was so proud of our group this year,” she added.

Magner said she hopes to continue the invention convention for the future years, and that all students who participate can take what they have learned and make a difference in their community.

Lillee Sheckles is a senior at Brown County High School and offers regular reports on happenings in the school. Stay tuned for her story next week when she talks to students about this new program.

Lillee Sheckles is a senior at Brown County High School and offers regular reports on happenings in the school. Stay tuned for her story next week when she talks to students about this new program.