A-C Valley, North Clarion, and Redbank Valley, Students Chosen to Lead as Chief Science Officers
- Editor
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Clarion, PA – November 10, 2025 – Riverview Intermediate Unit 6 is excited to announce that 25 students from three Clarion County high schools have been selected to represent the region as Chief Science Officers (CSOs). This program, recognized statewide and internationally, aims to inspire students in grades 6-12 by fostering leadership and innovation in science. The Northwest PA cohort consists of 80 talented students who have been selected by their teachers and peers for their outstanding commitment to science and their leadership potential. This Northwest PA group joins 550 statewide Chief Science Officers involved in the program this year.
A-C Valley: Jada Warfield, Jason Buchanan, Lillie Droddy, Cami Colwell, Allison Elder, Ivy Black, Joshua Ray Shirey and Jarah Batson. Advisors Wesley Krautbauer and Rachel Paz
Redbank Valley: Front Row: Adelyn Hetrick, Kaylee Boozer, Wyatt Kaza, Connor Moore
Middle Row: Caden Schultz, Miss Boyles, Michael Troup, Ryder Ortz, Maelle Hook, Hazel Coil, Molly Coil, Mr. Smith
Not Pictured: Alara Altobelli, Abigail Snyder, Bryella Pence and Kyndal Darr
Advisors: Jill Boyles and Greg Smith
North Clarion: Shawn Mahle and Ashton Bogel. Advisor: Raquel McFarland
These students attended a Leadership Training Institute (LTI) as part of their CSO journey. The event brought together students from schools across the IU6 region, creating a dynamic network of young leaders who are eager to shape the future of science education. The LTI was hosted at Riverview Intermediate Unit #6 and a lunch and learn was sponsored by NWIRC. Throughout the day, students were introduced to the CSO program’s core concepts and the importance of becoming STEM ambassadors within their school districts. They honed their public speaking skills, created their CSO online accounts, and engaged in an interactive coding experience with CodeJoy. Perhaps most importantly, the students began laying the groundwork for their action plans for the upcoming school year.
In early November, the students attended Matric Group in Seneca for a fall cabinet meeting and on-site career presentation and facility tour. The morning started out with students completing the Agile Work Profiler and gaining valuable insights into their strengths and how they can effectively use them to lead and work with others. Students then had the opportunity to tour the facility and learn how science and technology come together in electronics manufacturing. More events will take place in Spring 2026, including the community outreach action projects of each participating school.
The CSO program is more than just a title; it’s an internationally recognized initiative that empowers young advocates to bridge the gap between the classroom and the community. By nurturing leadership skills and fostering collaboration among student leaders, the program helps create a new generation of scientists and leaders who are poised to make a lasting impact.
