jonathan__kenny_web.jpgMIAMI GARDENS — Five student scholars from among nearly 70 have been recognized as the top Richard Allen Leadership Academy (RALA) Science Fair participants for their projects.

RALA Scholar Jonathan Kenny placed first with his scientific work: “Can The Design Of A Paper Airplane Affect How Far It Can Fly?” In addition to the great honor of becoming The Fair's inaugural winner, Jonathan received a check for $500. Juliani Delerme, Darren Jones, Bryan Edwards and Tai Bethel placed second, third, fourth and fifth, respectively.

The young scholars’ award-winning works were entered into the City of Miami Garden's Elementary Science & Engineering Competition Fair (The Fair). During The Fair, on Dec. 12, the scholars joined with students throughout Miami Gardens to present and defend their scientific work to graduate students at St. Thomas University. The winners were announced before a standing room only crowd of parents, politicians, and community leader

“We are extremely proud of Jonathan, Juliani, Darren, Bryan, and Tai for their commitment to excellence, as demonstrated by their outstanding projects,” said the Rev. Paul R. Wiggins, RALA executive director. “However, please know that we are equally proud of the other 100 boys who show up every day with a great attitude for learning.”

Wiggins said the Miami Gardens academy is expanding its science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) program, and inviting members of the public to make an investment to help implement a Robotics Program ($4,000), introduce and expand its Apple Learning Center ($10,000) and schedule more experiential field trips to STEM educational activities ($3,000).

“There are scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians in our midst and (donors) can help us identify them, develop them, nurture them and send them forth to believe, succeed and lead.”

For more information visit richarda lenla.com or email directormhcec@aol.com

Photo: Jonathan Kenny