The Deering High School Science Olympiad Team took first place at the Maine State Science Olympiad Tournament, held April 11 at the University of Maine Orono. Deering’s student-scientists outperformed 16 teams from across the state, securing a spot to represent Maine at the National Tournament in Los Angeles on May 23. Now, to make this trip a reality, the team is working to raise $20,000 to cover airfare, transportation, lodging, food, and science equipment.

The victory is a landmark achievement for Deering, coming just five years after the program’s inception. In addition to the team trophy, science teacher and advisor Cyle Davenport was honored with the Outstanding Coach Award for his role in steering the program to its first state title.

The outstanding accomplishments of both the students and their teacher/advisor align with the achievement and people goals of the district’s Strategic Plan.

The Deering Purple team surged to a first-place finish, bolstered by an incredible haul of individual medals. The team demonstrated mastery across diverse disciplines, from engineering and robotics to chemistry and environmental science. Learn more specifics on the team’s amazing medal count.

The team is now preparing for the Science Olympiad National Tournament, to be held at the University of Southern California on May 23. This is the first time Deering High School has competed on a national stage to face the top scientific minds from across the United States.

To make this trip a reality, the team must raise $20,000 to cover airfare, transportation, lodging, food, and science equipment for the 15 students on the Purple Team and their coaches.

In a strong show of support, the Foundation for Portland Public Schools has pledged to match every donation dollar-for-dollar up to $10,000. This means every contribution from the community has double the impact.

●      $250 funds specialized materials for build events.

●      $500 covers the total cost of lodging and food for one student on the USC campus.

●      $600 covers the round-trip airfare and ground transportation for one student to Los Angeles.

Ways to support the team:

●      Donate Online: Contributions can be made via the team’s GoFundMe page.

●      Sponsorships: Businesses interested in sponsoring the team’s journey to California or providing equipment are encouraged to contact science teacher/advisor Cyle Davenport at davenc@portlandschools.org