Young Scientists Chase Glory in Fairfax County's Science Olympiad

Longfellow Middle School in Fairfax County is known for its science prowess. The school's Science Olympiad team is a big deal. They've won the state title 13 times in a row. Now, they're aiming for a 14th victory. This is no small feat. The team is made up of 30 dedicated students. They train hard to keep the school's winning streak alive. Over 100 students competed for a spot on the team. They took tests and built devices to prove their skills. Students like Chloe Kim put in a lot of effort. She studies hard and updates her cheat sheets. The sheets are packed with tiny text. She adds to them all year long. The team meets three times a week. Some students even study late into the night. The competition is tough. It includes tests and building events. Students must create devices from given materials. Some events require a binder full of relevant info. The topics are challenging, often at a high school level. The team's success is a big deal. It's a legacy that spans decades. Coaches and parents work hard to keep the standard high. They review notes and share them with new team members. Former team members also help out. They offer advice and support. The pressure is on, but the students are motivated. They see the success of past teams. They want to live up to that example. It's a big commitment, but the experience is rewarding. It helps students feel like they belong.