Andrew Lingenfelter, an eighth grade student at Seneca Valley Middle School, will be competing June 20, in Philadelphia for the national competition of ‘You Be The Chemist’ Challenge, an academic competition created by the Chemical Educational Foundation (CEF). At the recent state competition at Penn State University, Andrew captured first place and Dominic Panzino, a sixth grade student from Evans City Middle School, earned second place.

The challenge aims to engage students, grades 5-8, in science through a dynamic event that tests their knowledge of chemistry concepts, important discoveries, and chemical safety awareness. Additionally, challenge competitions work to partner members of the chemical industry and its affiliated organizations with schools in the communities in which they operate. Michael Levere, gifted support teacher at Evans City Middle School, has had students participate in the challenges over the past three years. 

“The “You Be The Chemist” Challenge helps expose my science students to the world of chemistry, and how it applies to everyday life," Levere said. "My students gain a deeper understanding of how chemistry and chemicals shape the world around them.”