Students at Fonville Middle School are already getting ready for the Southeast National CSTEM Challenge on April 17 and 18.

The school hosted its kick-off celebration on Feb. 28, and CSTEM board member Ahmad Shaheed was the keynote speaker. Shaheed, who also works as an engineer, discussed the importance of studying engineering, math, and science. Students also heard encouraging words from Principal Iris Reyes.

“It’s imperative that students be proficient and build their knowledge base in creativity, math, science, and writing,” said technology teacher Vania Willms. “Students have learned the challenges for the 2014–2015 school year and started working on their projects, which incorporate solutions for the oil, gas, and wind industries.”