Celebrating a major achievement, Rock Island Center for Math & Science scholars made an impressive showing at the Illinois Invention Convention, with three scholars qualifying for the state competition. Baylin Sikes, Jack Lounsberry, and Quinn Koski advanced to the state level, where they competed on March 14.
Notably, Quinn was one of just 25 students selected to move on to Nationals at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan, which will take place from June 3 to June 5. This accomplishment is especially significant, as more than 300,000 students participated nationwide, including 6,689 in Illinois, with only 175 advancing to the state.
“To say that our Tornado community is proud of the Invention Convention coach and students is an understatement. We are overjoyed to see our students excel in this manner after just two years of our STEAM program. Students live in a world in which creative thought and design are no longer optional; they are required. The diligence, commitment, and innovation from this team have now established a foundation for future success,” said John Hawley, Principal of the Rock Island Center for Math & Science.
This success is a reflection of the Illinois Invention Convention Club, led by STEAM Specialist Amy Moffitt, in its inaugural year at the Rock Island Center for Math & Science.
“I am very proud of all of the students who participated in the Illinois Invention Convention Club this year. They all worked incredibly hard. I am beyond proud of Quinn for making it to Nationals - she will represent RICMS and Illinois well! I am looking forward to future years of hosting this club,” said Amy Moffitt, STEAM Specialist at the Rock Island Center for Math & Science.
Launched in October, scholars met weekly for 90 minutes, engaging in a hands-on process that began with identifying real-world problems through surveys of friends and family. They then conducted research, developed innovative solutions, and designed original prototypes, ensuring their ideas were unique and not already patented.
Each scholar’s project was inspired by a meaningful, real-life challenge:
Baylin created a prototype tool to remove the pith from oranges after learning his aunt dislikes it.
Jack, who enjoys baseball and values time with his grandfather, designed the "Jackopault," a device that allows his grandfather, who can no longer play catch due to past illnesses, to still participate in the game.
Quinn developed the "Busternutbar" to prevent squirrels from damaging her family's deck gate by directing them to preferred nuts and a safe chewing alternative.
In its first year under Amy Moffitt’s leadership, the Illinois Invention Convention Club has proven to be a powerful opportunity for scholars to explore innovation and problem-solving while making a real-world impact.