Penn Hills Elementary Students Shine in National and Regional Chemistry Contest

Penn Hills Elementary School is celebrating an outstanding achievement by its students in the American Chemical Society's (ACS) Illustrated Poem Contest. Fifth-grader Sebastian Bartha made school and regional history by winning first place nationally, while several other students earned recognition at the regional level. First-grader Marley Snyder, third-grader Cecilia DeJohn, and fifth-grader Isabella Porter also received recognition for their creative entries in the regional contest.

The ACS Illustrated Poem Contest, held annually during National Chemistry Week, challenges students to combine art, poetry, and science in a creative and engaging way. Mrs. Tracey Johnson, the K-8 Gifted Coordinator at Penn Hills, has been a long-time advocate for student participation in this competition. In addition to Sebastian's national victory, several other Penn Hills students achieved notable success at the regional level:

Grades K-2:

• 1st Place: Marley Snyder (first-grader)

Grades 3-5:

• 1st Place: Sebastian Bartha (fifth-grader)
• 2nd Place: Cecilia DeJohn (third-grader)
• 3rd Place: Isabella Porter (fifth-grader)

At the regional level, first-place winners receive $50, while second and third-place winners earn $25. 

Sebastian's accomplishment at the national level marks a milestone not only for Penn Hills Elementary School but also for the Pittsburgh section of the ACS. Competing against 70 entries from 32 ACS local sections across the United States, including regions in Florida, Puerto Rico, Georgie, and Washington, Sebastian's work stood out in the grades 3-5 category, earning him first place and a $300 prize.

This is an extraordinary achievement," said Mrs. Johnson. "It's inspiring to see one of our students recognized on such a grand scale."

Sebastian's win showcases his exceptional talent and brings pride to Penn Hills Elementary School and the Pittsburgh region, emphasizing the importance of blending science and the arts.

Adding to the excitement, Sebastian will appear on KDKA's Talk Pittsburgh on December 23 at 3 p.m. to discuss his work and experience in the contest. Be sure to tune it!

Congratulations to all of Penn Hills Elementary School's winners for their hard work and creativity. The school is beaming with pride!

From Left to Right: Marley Snyder, Cecilia DeJohn, Sebastian Bartha, Isabella Porter