On April 13, 2024, fourteen students representing Modoc Middle School, Modoc High School, and Surprise Valley High School showcased their STEM abilities at the MESA Day Regionals hosted by the University of California, Davis. Under the guidance of MESA Assistant Director Billie Austin and Surprise Valley High School MESA Advisor Nicole McLane, these students ventured into various competitions alongside approximately 600 peers from across Northern California.
Modoc Middle School sixth graders Hope Gali and Gabrielle Sparks joined seniors Taben Henderson and Ruby Sparks, as well as sophomore Miles Murray, in the intense Moon Base competitions. Meanwhile, sixth graders Lotus Auldridge, Zoey Curran, and Andrew Anguiano from SVHS and MMS took on the Cargo Glider challenges alongside 8th graders Brady Linton, Lorenzo Fernandez, Thomas Anguiano, and Whyatt Else.
SVHS teams Auldridge and Curran, as well as Linton and Fernandez, clinched second place ribbons for their innovative Creative Design projects. Else and T. Anguiano showcased their skills in the Virtual MESA Day Regionals’ Math Escape competition held earlier on April 9th.
UC Davis Chancellor Gary May welcomed the students, setting the stage for a day packed with competition and exploration. Amidst the rigorous contests, participants also enjoyed UCD campus tours, engaging STEM activities, board games, a Kahoot Trivia challenge, and a Resource Fair.
The collaboration between Modoc County schools and the University of California through the RISE program underscores a commitment to nurturing STEM aspirations among local youth. Offering academic advising, tutoring, campus tours, scholarship resources, and summer programs, this partnership equips students with the tools needed to pursue STEM careers.
For those interested in enrolling in MESA for the upcoming academic year, contact MESA Assistant Director Billie Austin at (530) 233-1730, located at Modoc Middle School Rm #6E.
(Back to front) Zoey Curran and Lotus Auldridge preparing to launch their Cargo Glider with judges standing by.
(left to right) Ruby Sparks, Hope Gali, and Gabrielle Sparks on the UCD campus tour.
