The Bedford Middle School Science Olympiad team delivered an outstanding performance at the Brown University Invitational on December 7, earning multiple top-six medals and placing sixth overall among teams representing six states. Coaches Daniel Cortright and Caitlin Quinn accompanied the students as they competed in a wide range of STEM events that challenged their problem-solving, collaboration, and application of scientific knowledge.

Competing against some of the strongest middle school teams in the region, Bedford students rose to the occasion with strong finishes across events. Their sixth-place overall team ranking reflects both individual excellence and consistent results throughout the day.

“Our students showed tremendous dedication and teamwork throughout the tournament. To place sixth among teams from six states is a testament to their curiosity, hard work, and love of science,” said Daniel Cortright, Science Olympiad coach.

“Invitational competitions are demanding, and this team rose to the occasion. Their success is a direct result of their preparation, perseverance, and excitement for STEM learning,” added Caitlin Quinn, Science Olympiad coach.

This year’s Bedford team includes:
Andrew Hartono, Ryan Ismael-Bakkali, Julie Ye, Danny Chaney, Rohan Gowthaman, Hamzah Yekta, Logan Warnke, Leanne Wong, Danielle Tom, Yulia Kostornichenko, Amy Hu, Madyan Hemdan, Brokke Burdeshaw, Mila Diggin, Molly Diamond, Aarohi Dami, Adelaide Ormsbee, William Wang, Jaden Jhun, and two Staples High School ninth-grade partners, Karina Chabria and Sophia Muriel.

Science Olympiad is a nationally recognized program that promotes hands-on, inquiry-based learning in biology, chemistry, earth science, engineering, physics, and technology. Students prepare for months to master event-specific content and engineering challenges, and invitational tournaments offer valuable competition experience before regional and state contests later in the school year.