L&N STEM Academy Hosts Milestone Event for 865 Academies’ First Cohort

Young Minds, Big Ideas: L&N STEM Students Lead the Way at STEMPosium 2025

The L&N STEM Academy is preparing for an exceptional event that celebrates student creativity and academic achievements. On 12 April, the inaugural cohort of the "Schools of the L&N" program will proudly present their research projects, the result of months of dedication and effort. This annual event, known as the "STEMPosium," is scheduled to take place at the academy from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and aims to highlight the innovative work of its participants.

Moreover, this year's STEMPosium holds special significance as it will also feature students from Knox County Schools’ 865 Academies program, marking a milestone for its first cohort. This program, designed to establish career-themed academics across high schools in the district, focuses on equipping students with the skills required for higher education, workforce readiness, entrepreneurship, or military careers. By combining independent research with professional collaboration, these students have developed a deeper understanding of a variety of topics.

The projects set to be showcased include Levi Dunn’s work on recycling polymers for additive manufacturing, Viv Ratner’s research on marine life conservation and pollution, and the study by Blake Bishop and Jacob Ickowitz on microplastics in fish with varying feeding habits. Other highlights are Rose Armsworth and Jax Grzywacz-Jones’s exploration of mosquito-related education efforts and Sophia Havrylyak’s research on quantum energy reservoirs for improved energy storage.

Additionally, attendees of the STEMPosium will have the opportunity to engage with the students’ research and participate in two special ceremonies. First, the Class of 2028 School Declaration Ceremony will allow incoming students to officially announce their academic pathways within the 865 Academies program. Second, the National Honour Society Induction Ceremony will celebrate students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance and leadership. The STEMPosium promises to be an inspiring event, bringing together innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence.

Editor’s Note:

The upcoming STEMPosium at L&N STEM Academy represents more than just a showcase of student research—it’s a celebration of innovation, perseverance, and educational excellence. Taking place on April 12, this year’s event holds particular significance as it features the inaugural cohort of both the "Schools of the L&N" and the Knox County Schools’ 865 Academies program. These initiatives reflect a growing emphasis on real-world learning, where students engage deeply with complex topics and collaborate with professionals to gain practical experience. The projects on display range from environmental conservation and material science to quantum energy, highlighting the diverse and ambitious interests of these young researchers. Beyond the presentations, the STEMPosium will also serve as a platform for meaningful community moments, including the Class of 2028 School Declaration Ceremony and the National Honour Society Induction. These ceremonies not only honour academic achievement and leadership but also mark pivotal milestones in students’ educational journeys.

Skoobuzz highlights that this event stands as a testament to what is possible when creativity, curiosity, and commitment are nurtured in a supportive academic environment.