Since 2003, South Windsor High School (SWHS) has consistently competed in the Science Olympiad, a prestigious national competition involving 7,000–8,000 teams. Over the years, SWHS has built a strong legacy, winning the Connecticut Science Olympiad Championship for the past three years and placing second in the finals 14 times prior to their winning streak.
Every year, SWHS assembles two teams to participate in the state tournament, traveling to different cities in Connecticut. Teams consist of up to 15 members, with students competing in 23 events in subjects such as anatomy, biology, chemistry, engineering and physics.
“Depending on the event, you must take a test, construct a device in advance, or do both,” senior Aditya Jha explained.
These events are divided into two main categories: study events and build events. Study events require an understanding of scientific principles and creative problem-solving, while build events require time and precision to design and perfect structures, devices, or machines.
“Currently, a challenging event is Material Science, which involves advanced chemistry concepts and a demanding lab component,” SWHS Science Olympiad advisor Joshua Kraus said. “Another event that may cycle back soon is Mission Possible, where students construct a Rube Goldberg device incorporating complex triggering mechanisms like infrared lights and heat transfers.”
Preparation is key to success. Students use resources such as YouTube, Khan Academy, conversations with their teachers and even AI to deepen their knowledge. Collaboration and teamwork are essential because the entire team’s average performance determines their overall ranking.
“I would say the best way to prepare is to find a passion for your events. Live them and love them, and remember that you are learning so the whole team can succeed,” Kraus said.
The competition format reflects this emphasis on teamwork. Each event contributes to the team’s overall score, with the lowest score winning. For example, first place in an event earns one point, while tenth place earns ten.
Kraus described the moments when the team came together, celebrating each other’s successes.
“But I also love the ‘aha’ moments when students are preparing and realize they’ve found excitement in what they’re doing. I love hearing my team collaborate and explain complex topics to each other. The pride they show when demonstrating their skills is unforgettable,” Kraus said.
Junior Sanjana Kadiyala believes that her team has made progress due to their determination to get better each year.
“The pressure of holding up our state champion title makes our members that much more dedicated and motivated to place. Personally, I enjoy every part of Science Olympiad, whether it’s studying for an event or coming up with innovative ways to complete a build event,” Kadiyala said.
Science Olympiad brings together the smartest minds from Connecticut creating a series of projects and sometimes even taking personal interest in their work, the team often takes practice tests and creates trial and error runs for their creations.
He believes that these skills translate into any profession. “You may be the best in your field, but if your colleagues aren’t doing their job it won’t come together.”
Kadiyala has big plans for her team. “This year we plan to set our standards even higher, we want to be able to place top 5 in every event, and have an inclusive and self dependent team that’s creative and dedicated. Most of all having people place in the top 5 at nationals is something we are all working towards this year.”
