In an outstanding display of academic brilliance and teamwork, students from Central Peel Secondary School (CPSS) once again left their mark on the international stage at the 2024 National Space Society (NSS) Gerard K. O'Neill Space Settlement Contest. Peel District School Board (PDSB) students not only achieved top honours but they were the only Canadian teams recognized at the global competition, continuing a proud precedent for Canadian innovators.
Global participation, local triumph
With more than 29,000 students from 28 countries participating in more than 5,200 entries, this year's contest was a fierce competition celebrating young minds' visions for life in space. CPSS distinguished itself by securing first prize, second prize, two third prize finishes and three honorable mentions, a testament to the exceptional talent and dedication of its students and educators.
"Inspiring young women to reach for the stars isn't just a dream; it's a mission accomplished. Congratulations to the students of Central Peel Secondary School for their stellar achievements in the NSS Space Settlement Contest, showcasing the boundless potential of Canadian innovators, and paving the way for a future where diversity and excellence intersect on the global stage of STEM exploration."
- Hon. Charmaine Williams, Associate Minister of Women's Social and Economic Opportunity
Highlighting the success, three of the awarded groups were all-female teams a first for CPSS since the school began competing in what was then known as the NASA Space Settlement Contest in 2017. This remarkable feat serves as an inspiration for young women and girls in Canada and beyond to pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
"Every year our students impress me with their extraordinary passion and curiosity for STEM, but this year I was over the moon seeing the growing number of young women excited to be part of the NSS Space Settlement Contest. In one year, we went from zero to 22 Central Peel girls placing, and I only see us going up from here. It is a dream come true for me."
- Simona Matei, the advisor of the Space Club and Head of Mathematics at Central Peel Secondary School.
Grade 12 all-girls team wins first prize
The grade 12 all-girls team won first prize with a project titled Nirvana, which focuses on diverse topics that ensure human survival for future generations, all aimed at addressing present-day challenges of space habitation. The project explores theoretical possibilities, such as extracting energy from black holes, integrating biological components in farming and agriculture, devising an educational plan for subsequent generations, introducing artificially structured materials, and implementing innovative ideas such as a holographic therapy and the invention of a new sport.
"We're immensely proud of each student who participated in this contest, their achievements reflecting the outstanding education and support they receive to make a positive impact on the global stage. It is particularly thrilling to see a team of all young women leading the charge, inspiring others to build upon the legacy of excellence in STEM at Peel District School Board that they are now a part of."
- Rashmi Swarup, Director of Education, Peel District School Board.
Next up: the International Space Development Conference in Los Angeles
All the teams that placed will be heading to the International Space Development Conference in Los Angeles, May 23 to 26, 2024. There, the students will have the chance to network, participate in expert panel discussions and present their analysis of human potential in space through their project.
About Peel District School Board
Peel District School Board (PDSB) is a racially, culturally, and linguistically diverse board that serves 150,000 students in 259 schools across Brampton, Caledon, and Mississauga. PDSB is the second largest school board in Canada as well as the largest employer in Peel Region. Learn more at www.peelschools.org.
For more information
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