CANFIELD — Canfield High School’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) class is one of five Ohio schools to be named a finalist in the 15th annual Samsung Solve for Tomorrow STEM competition.

CHS was awarded a $2,500 technology prize as a finalist and now will compete for a $100,000 national prize. The other Ohio schools include Harmon Middle School (Aurora), Troy Intermediate School (Avon Lake), Unity Academy High School (Columbus) and Anthony Wayne High School (Whitehouse).

“The prize pack contains a Samsung Chromebook and several tablets,” said CHS chemistry teacher Thomas Slaven. “The devices will be used by our Advanced Chemistry classes with our data loggers to collect and analyze laboratory data. They will be assigned to specific lab groups to produce lab reports and present their information to classmates.”

Schools In the competition work around common student concerns such as climate crisis, mental health and wellness and school safety. The Canfield topic was environmentally focused.

“Our project focused on the lack of effective control measures for the invasive lanternflies that are spreading across the eastern United States and could be damaging to agriculture and native tree species,” Slaven said. “The students wanted to design a trap that capitalizes on the unique biology of the lanternflies, while not utilizing toxic compounds or attracting beneficial insects. Through a review of research articles, they have found colors, scents and environmental conditions that attract lanternflies and could be used to customize the traps.”

The next phase for CHS students involves the submission of an activity plan by Jan. 9 that specifically details objectives and goals, the community impact of the project and how students will be assessed.

“During this phase, we will begin experimenting with the insects and designing our environmentally friendly traps,” Slaven said.

Canfield will be working hard as it competes with 300 schools from across the nation. In April, three national winners will be selected and each will receive a $100,000 prize package.

Students involved in the group include from Advanced Chemistry 2: Bella Biro, Enzo Cocca, Jason Dangol, Ryan Dangol, Nick Folsom, Abi Hallos, Emma Geisler, Zain Jadallah, Hadley Moser, Michael Pantelakis, Reagan Teschke, Anna Vennetti and Katie Weibling. From Susan Dunn’s science class are: Len Finsen, Avery Gordon, Mike Kelly, Ethan Peralta, Natalia Williams and Anthony Zoccali. Dunn worked with Slaven on the project. These students will gain valuable STEM knowledge that can be applied to many career paths. Slaven said employers and post-secondary institutions expect graduates to have these skills in place and be experienced problem solvers.

“The students in Canfield have the opportunity to take a variety of STEM-related courses that build skills and experiences,” Slaven said. “Our schedule allows the school to offer College Credit Plus and Advanced Placement courses that help prepare students for further study after graduation. Our students have been recognized in several national competitions and successfully participated in real-world challenges showing that they are among the best in the country.”