Durant second grader Aurora Shirey of Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy won first place at the elementary science fair by showing plants grow faster with music. She grew two tomato plants—one exposed to calming music and one without—and documented the difference. Aurora’s curiosity has flourished at OVCA, where she’s encouraged to explore. For her win, Aurora received a microscope to fuel her passion for science.
Destinations Career Academy of New Mexico student Konner Yessilgh is gaining hands-on entrepreneurship experience through Orchard Park’s Makers Market, where he is building business skills while selling his own products. With support from mentors and the youth entrepreneurship program, Konner is developing confidence, customer service skills and real-world experience as he explores his future career goals in game development.
