Only student team from the San Diego region to earn top statewide honor for their innovative AI solution.
Students from Canyon Crest Academy (CCA) in the San Dieguito Union High School District (SDUHSD) have been named California State Champions in the 2026 Presidential AI Challenge, a national competition recognizing innovative student-developed artificial intelligence solutions to real-world challenges with their project, Resourcify. This year, more than 2,500 submissions were received nationwide, with only 328 teams recognized as state-level winners.
11th-graders Rishi Kumar, Dhruv Bantval, Chenhao Zhang, and Saevin Hong worked on Resourcify, an AI-powered platform designed to support individuals newly experiencing homelessness. Using computer vision, the tool analyzes a user’s belongings and generates personalized recommendations based on factors such as location, weather, and budget. The platform also identifies recyclable materials that can be exchanged for income and connects users with relevant public benefits and resources. Testing demonstrated reliable object detection and practical, actionable guidance, successfully meeting the project’s core design goals.
“Having students recognized as state champions in the Presidential AI Challenge is one of the most meaningful moments I’ve had as a teacher,” said Kevin Hare, Computer Science teacher at Canyon Crest Academy. “Resourcify is not just a strong project technically. It reflects exactly the kind of thoughtful, human-centered problem-solving we work toward in our computer science program. What this team built together shows what is possible when young people are given the tools, the challenge, and the trust to create something that matters.”
The Presidential AI Challenge brings together K-12 students, educators, and mentors to develop AI-driven solutions that address pressing community needs while building technical skills and fostering responsible use of emerging technologies.
As state champions, the CCA team will advance to the regional competition, where they will have the opportunity to further showcase their work alongside other top teams from across the country.
CCA’s recognition reflects the SDUHSD’s broader commitment to academic excellence and innovation, ensuring that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.