Student innovators from across Anne Arundel County Public Schools were recently recognized for their outstanding achievements during the 2026 Innovators of Science and Engineering Challenge (ISEC) Awards Ceremony, held May 12 at Lindale Middle School.
Among the evening's top honorees, Viven Mistry of Chesapeake Science Point Elementary School earned the Research Expo Grand Award for the project, The Power of Hydraulics. In the Innovators Olympics, Ewan Haines and Talia Ryder of Cape St. Claire Elementary School captured the top team honor by earning the highest combined score across five STEAM challenge stations.
Students from across the county also received special awards sponsored by several AACPS offices and community partners, including the AACPS Environmental Literacy Office, Career and Technical Education Office, Elementary Mathematics Office, Triple E Office, Advanced Learner Program Office, and Legends of Learning.
More than 500 parents, students, staff members, and community supporters attended the celebration, which recognized the accomplishments of approximately 200 students representing 45 elementary schools. Hosted by the AACPS Office of Elementary Science and Social Studies, ISEC showcases the curiosity, creativity, and innovation of young scientists, engineers, and problem-solvers.
The competition took place on May 2 and featured two pathways for participation: the Research Expo and the Innovators Olympics. Students in the Research Expo presented original science and engineering projects that had earned recognition at their schools, while Innovators Olympics teams demonstrated their skills through five hands-on STEAM challenges designed to test creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking.
Before the awards presentation, attendees enjoyed an engaging science-themed magic show by renowned performer Dr. T of Mad Science DC. The presentation was generously sponsored by the Education Foundation of Anne Arundel County Public Schools.
Award recipients received congratulations from AACPS Board of Education members Robert Silkworth and Erica McFarland. The ceremony was emceed by Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment Michele Batten, Director of Elementary Core Amanda Salveron, and Coordinator of Elementary Science and Social Studies Eve Case.
The annual ISEC competition inspires young learners to explore, innovate, and discover while celebrating the scientific inquiry, creativity, and perseverance that support AACPS' commitment to ensuring every student can belong, grow, and succeed.