The Banning Unified School District hosted its annual Science Fair and History Day Recognition Ceremony at the Banning High School Performing Arts Center on Jan. 14. The event celebrated the achievements of students who excelled at the district level in the Science Fair and History Day competitions. Students were awarded medals and certificates for their hard work and dedication.
The ceremony highlighted outstanding projects from both competitions, showcasing creativity, innovation and a commitment to academic excellence. These exceptional students now can advance to the county level, where their projects will compete against other top students in Riverside County through the Riverside County Office of Education.
History Day overview and winners
National History Day (NHD) is a year-long educational program for students in grades four through 12. For 2025, the theme is “Rights & Responsibilities in History.” Students selected historical topics, conducted in-depth research, and created projects that analyzed their significance. Winners advance through a series of competitions, from local to national levels.
Individual projects
First place: Rosa Parks — Central Elementary School (Angeli Gonzalez)
Second place: Rosa Parks — Central Elementary School (Peyton Moore)
Third place: Mexican War of Independence 1810 — Hemmerling Elementary School (Gabriel Rodriguez)
Group projects
First place: Harriet Tubman — Hemmerling Elementary School (Alaiah Barbosa, Lauren Sphabmixay, Juliet Cruz Flores)
Second place: Ruby Bridges Changes Education — Hoffer Elementary School (Genesis Stewart, Eliana Garcia, Kiona Cameron, Isaziah Allen, Ethan Frausto)
Third place: Restoring Native Traditions — Hemmerling Elementary School (Ella Brock, Melanie Avila)
Science and Engineering Fair overview and winners
The Science and Engineering Fair offers students a chance to showcase their creativity and scientific knowledge. Projects are assessed on the scientific method, clarity, originality and presentation. Winners progress from district to county, state and international competitions, including the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).
Elementary division
First place: Fountain of Truth — Hemmerling Elementary School (Zaden Zamudio, Melanie Avila)
Second place: Pop! — Central Elementary School (Nayana Williams)
Third place: Stain, Stain Go Away — Central Elementary School (Melanie Gutierrez)
Middle school division
First place: Which Method of Apple Slice Preservation is Most Successful Without Compromising Taste — Nicolet Middle School (Elizabeth Scott-Magedman)
Second place: Plant Growth — Nicolet Middle School (Anabelle Ortiz and Darla Orosco)
Third place: What Object Has More Bacteria: A Phone Screen, a Toilet Seat, or a Door Knob — Nicolet Middle School (Anthony Thomas)
Superintendent Terrance Davis conveyed his pride in the students.
“These students exemplify the spirit of academic excellence in Banning USD. Their hard work, creativity and passion for learning are truly inspiring, and we are excited to see them represent our District at the county level,” Davis said.