MISSION, TEXAS (January 30, 2026) - Mission Consolidated Independent School District (CISD) hosted the 2026 Elementary District Science Fair on January 28, at Rafael Cantu Junior High. This event showcased the curiosity, innovation, and scientific knowledge of young students from across the district.
During the judging process, students had the opportunity to present their hypothesis and experimental findings, sharing their passion for science with evaluators and attendees. Their projects demonstrated creativity, problem-solving skills, and a strong understanding of the scientific method. The competition covered various categories, including collections, models, experiments, and inventions, encouraging students to explore diverse scientific concepts.
Mission CISD commends all students who participated in the event for their dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to scientific exploration. Their hard work and innovative ideas reflect the district’s ongoing mission to promote STEM education and hands-on learning experiences.
2026 Science Fair Category Winners
Category Winners
Collections - Kindergarten
1st Place: Maria Ramirez – Castro Elementary (Pets)
2nd Place: Jo Moreno – Leal Elementary (Kinder Rocks)
3rd Place: Christina Gaytan – Waitz Elementary (Collection of School Breakfast Drinks)
Collections - 1st Grade
1st Place: Ann Barrera – Castro Elementary (Rocky Discoveries)
2nd Place: Michelle Luera – Salinas Elementary (Mini Erasers Collection)
3rd Place: Jennifer Williams – Cantu Elementary (Our Seeds)
Model - 2nd Grade
1st Place: Dakota Lopez – Leal Elementary (Seeing the Sun's Invisible Rays in Action)
2nd Place: Ivanna Urabno – Salinas Elementary (The Dirty Truth)
3rd Place: Jaime Galaviz – O'Grady Elementary (Our Solar System)
Model - 3rd Grade
1st Place: Ewan Slabaugh – Escobar Rios (Floating Maglev Train)
2nd Place: Aliyana Lopez – Canty Elementary (Battle of the Sheet)
3rd Place: Victoria Barrera – Bryan Elementary (The Life Cycle of an Ant)
Experiment - 4th Grade
1st Place: Arturo Guajardo – Midkiff Elementary (Testing the Beginners Method on a Variety of Cubes)
2nd Place: Misael Flores – Waitz Elementary (Keep it Cool)
3rd Place: Olivia Rios – Midkiff Elementary (Banana Bonanza)
Experiment - 5th Grade
1st Place: Alexander Aguillon – Mims Elementary (Tumbler Wars)
2nd Place: Juan Mendoza – Midkiff Elementary (Deflategate and physics of football)
3rd Place: Zara Varlack – Mims Elementary (Glossy Glam Science)
Invention
1st Place: Ian Solis – Ivan Solia (Mechanical Bird Prototypes for the future)
2nd Place: Malillany Vera – Salinas Elementary (Atomic Water Fountain)
3rd Place: Giuliana Ocanas – Mims Elementary (Teacher's Pet)
Mission CISD extends its appreciation to the teachers, whose dedication fosters a love for science and discovery among students. Their guidance and support help young learners develop critical thinking skills and confidence in their research. Additionally, a special thank you goes to the parents, whose encouragement and involvement play a crucial role in their children’s academic success.
LINK TO PHOTOS OF ALL STUDENTS WHO PLACED
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