Lubbock Kids Win Big at Science Bowl
A lively science competition wrapped up Saturday night, with Lubbock High School’s team taking the top spot in a regional contest held at AmTech Career Academy. The event, backed by PanTeXas Deterrance, LLC., ran until about 6:30 p.m. and featured challenging questions that match college‑level difficulty, according to a spokesperson for the organizers.
- 14 schools battled it out in a round‑robin session in the morning, followed by double‑elimination rounds that afternoon.
- The final showdown saw Lubbock’s first team edge out Amarillo’s second team, earning a $1,000 prize for the school and a chance to compete in Washington, D.C. later this year.
Awards & Prizes
| Rank | School | Prize |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Lubbock High School (Team 1) | $1,000 |
| 2nd | Amarillo High School (Team 2) | $500 |
| 3rd | Lubbock High School (Team 2) | $250 |
- Caprock High School earned the Sportsmanship Award for fair play.
- Bonham Middle School won the middle‑school category and will join Lubbock’s senior team on an all‑expense paid trip to the national competition in April.
Context & Significance
Organizers noted that Pantex sponsors the event to promote STEM education and scout future talent for its growing workforce, especially with upcoming projects at the plant. The regional science bowl is part of a long‑standing partnership that began in 1991 when the U.S. Department of Energy launched the National Science Bowl to spark interest in science and math.
Behind the Scenes
- Roughly 72 volunteers helped across 12 rooms during the round‑robin stage.
- The atmosphere was electric; students celebrated like championship athletes, high‑fiving and cheering each other on.
The competition proved that young minds can tackle tough questions quickly, showcasing the talent and enthusiasm present in local schools.