Devastated is the word most used when the Thomas Jefferson Middle School (TJMS) Science Olympiad members describe the 2020 season. When COVID-19 shut down the country, the team had just come off a huge regional win, where they won nearly every event and took the team title.
After 27 state titles, 30-straight trips to nationals, two national titles, three state runner-ups, and too many individual event gold medals to count, their winning streak would come to a halt.
Just like that, countless hours spent studying, building, memorizing, and perfecting were ripped away. The 2020 Indiana State tournament was canceled and for the first time since 1990, the TJMS team would not have the chance to compete at nationals, which was also ultimately canceled.
Almost exactly a year from the 2020 devastation, and just a few short weeks out until the State competition, TJMS is back and ready to defend their state title.
Competitions look a little different in 2021, with the team participating in two virtual invitationals. Although they have had to learn an entirely new way of competing, the team won both invitationals.
They seem more determined than ever, learning the new system of virtual competition, studying, building, coding, and designing. They’re putting in the hard work and are not about to let the pandemic stop them.
The TJMS Science Olympiad program, coached by Rich Bender and Carol Haller since 1986 has a history of excellence, but don't let that fool you into thinking these kids and coaches have it easy. Upholding that reputation year after year only gets harder.
If you see a TJMS Science Olympiad member or coach, congratulate them and wish them luck, as they deserve it!
This years team members include:
- Freshmen - Matthew Smith, Liam Utesch, Tyler Edwards, Nick Wills, Karissa Kasper
- Eighth graders - Aliya Mayer, Amy Yu, Chase Henry, Ian Dutz
- Seventh graders - Clara Warren, Daniel Nathan, Vincent LaFollette, Albert Iceman
- Sixth grader -Jennifer Wang
Good luck TJMS and congratulations!