Columbia team wins Science Buzz Club year-end tourney
MADISON – The Science Buzz Club at James Clemens High School wrapped its second year with a successful yearend tournament and promotion of STEM understanding.
“The Science Buzz Club concluded another exciting and enriching year with its much-anticipated end-of-year tournament, bringing together elementary students for a spirited display of curiosity, teamwork and scientific knowledge,” spokesperson Suresh Avula said.
Students from participating schools competed in a series of buzzer-style rounds that tested their understanding of diverse scientific concepts. The event highlighted not only academic excellence but also confidence and collaboration that students have built, Avula said.
Emerging as this year’s tournament champion was Team Columbia Elementary. Members are Captain Meera, Noah, Ishaan, Joseph and Arya, who demonstrated exceptional teamwork and depth of knowledge. Team Madison Elementary, represented by Captain Manasvi, Konrad, Samuel and Jingxi, secured an impressive second-place finish after a strong start-to-finish showing.
In addition to tournament honors, Team Columbia was recognized for its outstanding performance throughout the school year, earning top distinction in the buzzer competitions. “Meanwhile, Team Heritage was celebrated for its consistent engagement and enthusiasm, taking home the lecture participation award,” Avula said.
Organizers expressed pride in the tremendous growth that all participants showed. From the beginning of the school year to the final competition, students developed not only their scientific knowledge but also critical thinking, communication and teamwork skills.
“Beyond the tournament, the Science Buzz Club continues to play an important role in STEM outreach across Madison City Schools,” Avula said. “Through weekly sessions, interactive lectures and competitive quiz formats, the club introduces students to a wide range of science topics in an engaging and accessible way.”
The club’s leadership — President Praneel Avula and officers Heidi Leonard, Harstha Chander and Joel Yang — lead these efforts by designing curriculum, preparing competition questions and mentoring younger participants. Their commitment helps cultivate curiosity and confidence in STEM subjects while fostering a culture of peer-driven learn- ing and academic enthusiasm.
“This program continues to inspire an inquisitive mindset in students,” according to organizers. “We’re incredibly proud of how much each student has achieved.”
Science Buzz Club’s success would not have been possible without the dedication of many individuals. Organizers extended heartfelt thanks to the volunteers who have supported the program.
“Special recognition was given to teacher sponsor Ms. Ashley Horne, whose guidance and commitment played a vital role in shaping the program. Parents were also acknowledged for their ongoing support, whether through transporting students to meetings, encouraging their studies or helping sustain a positive learning environment,” Avula said.
“This program truly thrives because of the strong partnership among families, volunteers and educators,” according to organizers. “As the year concludes, the club looks ahead with excitement.”
Fifth-grade participants received congratulations and wished success as they transition to middle school. Plans are underway already to potentially expand the program to include sixth-graders next year to offer returning students an opportunity to continue their journey in scientific exploration.
Fourth-grade students also were encouraged to return and build on their experiences in the coming year. “While we are sad to see the year end, we are incredibly grateful for the chance to work with these students and watch them grow,” organizers said. “Their curiosity and dedication make this program truly special.”
“Science Buzz Club remains committed to fostering a love of learning and science in young minds . . . and this year’s tournament stands as a testament to the passion and potential of its students,” Avula said.
