A group of fourth graders at Brecknock Elementary School have turned a class project into a state title.
The students recently won first place at the PA Invention Convention, earning a trip to compete in the RTX Invention Convention’s national competition.
A team made up of students KayLeigh Haage, Hope McCallicher, Tierney Sanocki and Faylee Stitzma, and led by librarian Rachel Sebastian and teacher Adam Ricketts, won their title Wednesday in Hershey.
Their project — a prototype piece of construction equipment that tills, dries and removes water vapor from soil — was one of 57 entered into the invention contest.
The Terra-Dri-Vator Pro, as they named their project, is designed to be an all-in-one solution for the excavation process, allowing soil to be quickly prepared for compaction without the use of chemicals.
Their creation was born out of a need the students discovered while working with Schlough Inc. as part of the Brecknock Business Symposium, which pairs classes with local business to learn about their industry.
“The invention process is a great example of using relevant, hands-on learning,” Ricketts said. “At Gov. Mifflin, we are proud to facilitate learning experiences beyond the four walls of the classroom and the opportunity to connect with our community stakeholders.”
The Brecknock students will next present their prototype in June at the national competition in Dearborn, Mich.