ACPS students win awards at the International Science and Engineering Fair

Three Alachua County Public Schools students were among nearly 2,000 young scientists from 75 countries who competed at last month’s Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in Los Angeles.

Nathan Wei of Buchholz High School placed second in chemistry.

Earlier this year, Wei was named one of 40 finalists in the 2024 Regeneron Science Talent Search for his research project to develop strong recyclable plastic made from renewable resources. Wei then placed fourth in the Regeneron STS finals in March, and in an earlier interview with The Sun, he said his goal was to be among the top eight for quality at the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).

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Wei also won at the State Science and Engineering Fair, where he won first place in the Senior Chemistry Division for his research related to plastic made from renewable resources. Moreover, as stated in the press release, he was awarded two special awards in his category and the title of Grand Prize Winner.

Another Buchholz student and State Science and Engineering Fair winner, Sophia Rong, also represented the district in the international competition.

Rong won first place in the statewide Senior Mathematics and Computational Science competition for a project related to HIV transmission. As stated in the press release, she also won a special award in her category and was the winner of the main prize.