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Pretty River Academy students win big in regional science fair

The school brought home 65 awards
CollingwoodToday Staff
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NEWS RELEASE
PRETTY RIVER ACADEMY
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Pretty River Academy, a K-12 independent school, announced the 27 students who presented science fair projects at the Simcoe County Regional Science and Technology Fair on April 4-8 earned 65 awards. 

“We grow scientists!” says Chris Fischer, principal at Pretty River Academy. “It is the perfect vehicle for our students to meet the two goals we have for each of them. First that they are effective critical thinkers, and second that they have the skills and confidence to share their ideas with the world.” Pretty River Academy was able to return to in-person science fair judging for their school fair in March.

“It is so exciting to feel the energy in the gym as students present their projects. It feels so nice for the students to have that experience again. Listening to students’ passion and incredible ideas is a privilege.” Fischer says.

Pretty River Academy has a legacy of science success. Since 2007, 33 PRA students have earned a place at the Canada Wide Science Fair. This year five more PRA students will compete at the national science fair hosted virtually by Youth Science Canada at the University of New Brunswick in Fredricton. 

“It is the most authentic learning students do all year. They pick a topic they’re passionate about and integrate their learning from each discipline. It is a long term project that provides opportunities to learn and practice skills they will need to succeed in University and their career.”

Below are highlights from the five projects selected for the Canada Wide Science Fair on May 16-20, 2022.

  • Chloe Hill, Grade 12

    • Autonomous Search and Rescue Aircraft

      • In the United States, 22 people drown every day. Search and rescue operations are often unsuccessful. Chloe decided to change that. Utilizing autonomous technology and algorithms she developed, her aircraft is capable of searching far and wide efficiently to provide a faster first response to people at risk of drowning in open water. Her aircraft, an octocopter, deploys rapid inflatable life preservers exactly where they're needed. Chloe's programming and unique algorithm power her autonomous search software and predicts the optimal search area and pattern based on current, wind and sea levels. 

  • Claire Mantrop, Grade 9

    • Water Works

      • Many rural and remote communities around Canada do not have reliable power sources and rely on diesel power generation. So Claire engineered a portable hydroelectric generator using inexpensive materials. 

  • Arlo White, Grade 10

    • Humidron

      • Canadian summers are hotter and more humid, thanks to climate change. These two dangerous conditions put Canadians at risk of unexpected household damage and severe adverse health outcomes, including heart attack and death. The most susceptible people may not have access to costly home cooling systems. That's why Arlo engineered the Humidron with an innovative design that creates an effective and inexpensive home cooling solution, allowing anyone to stay safe and healthy from the rising thermometer and humidex.

  • Ava Fischer, Grade 10

    • COVID Coaster

      • Research shows that teens are more affected by the psychosocial effects of COVID measures resulting from physical distancing, masking, changes in school, and shifts in academic and social patterns. So Ava set out to study exactly how public health mitigation strategies have affected teens. Ava's research can be analyzed and applied to teens and those who have struggled throughout the pandemic. Youth and mental health centred organizations can use her data to implement effective strategies that would positively impact mental health. It is essential to understand the scope and intricacies of the problem to provide targeted support and programming best to help teens move forward into adulthood in a healthy way.

  • Sia Mehta, Grade 7

    • Thermochromic Economics

      • According to Natural Resources Canada, heating and cooling monopolize 63 per cent of a home's energy usage. Part of this energy is used when dark coloured roofs absorb the sun’s heat in the summer, increasing the air-conditioning load. In the winter, having a white roof reflects the sun’s heat that could be used to warm up the house. To help solve this problem, Sia engineered a colour-changing roof coating that withstands weather and saves energy.

“Our students give me so much hope for the future. Their science fair projects offer a glimpse into the way young people see the world. But more importantly, the projects show their drive to make a difference.” Fischer says.

Pretty River Academy was founded in 1998 and since then has provided student-centred education in Collingwood for students in Kindergarten to Grade 12. 

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