BUFFALO, NY -- 600 students from 28 different high schools gathered at Buff State on Saturday, showing off their science and engineering skills in the process.
The high school Science Olympiad Erie/Niagara Tournament began at 8:15 Saturday morning, and included demonstrations involving mousetrap cars, helicopters, hovercrafts, laser work, tower contests, and even a device inspired by Rube Goldberg.
Each contest was judged and graded throughout the day, with the top schools slated to join the statewide regional tournament in March.
Top students also competed for their own gold medals and trophies - all part of the Science Olympiad's mission statement: to improve the quality of K-12 science education, increasing male, female, and minority interest in science, creating a technologically-literate workforce and providing recognition for outstanding achievement by both students and teachers.
This is the first year Buff State is hosting the event, which was previously held at Canisius College.
Williamsville East took first place, followed by St. Joe's, Williamsville North, Nichols and Canisius.