The Warren County School District (WCSD) is offering its gifted students a wealth of engaging opportunities, including field trips, enrichment days, and academic contests. Students are rising to the challenge, showcasing their talents and passion for learning through a variety of activities and projects.

Gifted students in WCSD have exciting experiences to look forward to in 2025, including: Hack-A-Thon (January): Hosted by the Regional Science Consortium in Erie, this event allows students to collaborate on solving an environmental problem. They’ll develop solutions, create prototypes, and present their findings to a panel of judges.Carnegie Arts and History Museum (March): Students will explore both the arts and history in this enriching field trip to the Carnegie Arts and History Museum. Forensic Escape Room (March): Also hosted by the Regional Science Consortium, students will engage in a mystery-solving challenge using forensic labs to gather clues and “escape the room.”

Rachel Beach, a gifted education coordinator at WCSD, shared her excitement: “These field trips are not just about learning–they’re about inspiring curiosity and helping students apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.”

WCSD students have also been hard at work during their enrichment days, exploring topics in science, mathematics, and English language arts. Notable activities include designing putt-putt golf holes, creating Math BreakoutEDU games, and participating in debates and mock trials.

Photos submitted by WCSD A student giving her presentation on Susan B. Anthony.

Students are encouraged to showcase their skills in several upcoming contests, such as: Warren County American Legion Essay Contest (Deadline: February 20), WPSU Poetry Contest (Deadline: February 28), WQLN Art Contest (Deadline: March 14), American Library Poetry Contest (Deadline: April 30)

“Contests like these give our students the opportunity to shine on larger platforms and develop confidence in their abilities,” said Rachel.

Several students have already made remarkable achievements: Derek Leach, a fifth grader at Eisenhower Elementary School, earned National Honor Roll status in the Noetic Math Contest, placing in the top 10% nationwide. “The competition was really fun and engaging,” Derek said. “I didn’t care about the medal–I just enjoyed seeing my score.”

Madilyn Leichtenberger, a 5th grader at Sheffield Elementary School, explored her favorite author, Megan Shull, through a project that celebrated her love for literature.

“I chose Megan Shull because she wrote my favorite book, Bounce. It incorporates fantasy and real life,” she explained.

Other students showcased creativity through Wax Museum projects, highlighting historical figures such as William Shakespeare, Leonardo da Vinci, and James Madison.

“I chose Leonardo da Vinci because he inspired me to be an artist,” said Noah Ringer, a 5th grader at Beaty-Warren Middle School.

For more information on gifted programs, contests, or field trips, visit the Warren County School District’s website.

“We want our students to not just learn but thrive,” Beach said. “These programs and projects give them the tools they need to succeed academically and personally.”