Across the Community Schools of Frankfort, learning doesn’t stop when the school day ends. From elementary through high school, students have opportunities to take what they learn in class and apply it through competitions, research projects, and career-connected programs. Several of these groups have seen significant success this year as a direct result of their hard work and dedication.
At Green Meadows, a team of fifth graders earned first place at the Indiana State Science Bowl. Competing against schools from across the state, the group earned perfect scores in both the team and experiment rounds. Additionally, students in the High-Ability program in grades 5-8 had another strong showing at the Lafayette Regional Science and Engineering Fair. Sixty students earned a combined 63 awards, and Frankfort Middle School was once again named the top-performing group in the Junior Division. Six students also advanced to the Hoosier State Science Fair. The FMS Science Olympiad team is also headed to State. The group placed third at regionals and secured a spot in the state competition after coming in second at their recent Wildcard Tournament.
At the high school, students are building on that foundation through programs connected to future careers. FHS’s DECA chapter saw success at this year’s state conference. Chapter president Lily Rockhold placed second in Financial Consulting, and the chapter earned two statewide honors, including Gold Level School-Based Enterprise recognition. FCCLA students also had a strong performance at their state competition, with every Frankfort participant earning a medal. In total, the group brought home six gold, nine silver, and five bronze medals in the program’s second year.
Programs like these give students more ways to stay involved and connected to school. Through participation in these activities, students translate their classroom learning into action. They practice critical thinking and decision-making while preparing for competitions or carrying out projects. Working alongside their fellow students strengthens relationships and builds trust, which are both key to students feeling that sense of belonging that is so important. Above all else, these kinds of experiences give students confidence and skills that they can carry into whatever comes next.