From groundbreaking scientific discoveries to advancing tech, the world is changing fast.  And at Jose Rios Middle School’s 47th Annual Science Fair, students are proving they’re ready to be part of that change.

STEM subjects are shaping the future.  But how do we inspire the next generation of scientists and forward-thinkers? At Jose Rios' science fair, nearly 100 students stepped up to explore the world of science.

As theories evolve, technology advances, and new discoveries are made, teachers continue to push students to pursue their ideas. And SBA president Sydney Matanona was inspired by her own study habits, telling KUAM News, “I obviously need to do my own studies outside of school and I would usually listen to music. Then I wondered – should I be listening to music? So that inspired my question.”

"I found out that it was harder to concentrate and that it’s better without it.”

Students also gained valuable experience in public speaking and confidence-building. Matanona added, “I usually do the science fair to help me get out of my comfort zone and present to an audience so that when I go to high school, it’s easier to do in front of my classmates.”

And for science teacher Bonifacio Obano, the science fair is more than just a competition - it’s preparation for the future. “We’re always working hard on preparing these kids for the future. We’re looking at the workforce. What do they need?” he said.

He believes events like these encourage them to take action, noting, “Doing the real world activity and this is a real world activity! I’m just hoping in my heart that they too can realize that life is not just sitting around and hoping that something just lands in our laps. Doing something is more satisfying than just doing nothing.”

With curiosity as their guide, these students are already thinking like scientists, asking questions, testing ideas, and discovering answers.  Some may even take their projects to the Islandwide Science Fair at UOG, proving that the future of STEM on Guam is full of bright minds and bold ideas.