Brockton Students Win American Student Assistance Contest

BROCKTON, MA — A team of middle school students from Plouffe Academy in Brockton have won the national American Student Assistance (ASA) Solve Together: Tomorrow’s Leaders Tackling Today’s Challenges contest, according to a news release from the nonprofit.

The team, known as the "Galactic Girls,"is made up of five seventh graders with the help of guidance counselor John MacDonald. The students took on roles as scientists to develop comprehensive blueprints and models for hydroponic farms to make life on Mars possible, winning $1,500 for their team and $10,000 for their school.

"Providing equitable access to project-based learning and career exploration opportunities is critical in enabling educators and schools to prepare students for long-term success," said ASA President and CEO Jean Eddy in a statement. "All of the student-led projects submitted to Solve Together were thoughtfully designed, and we commend the many educators across the country who provided strong guidance and instruction to these students throughout the entire process."

American Student Assistance is focused on fostering students' understanding of post-secondary education and future careers. The Solve Together contest is designed to encourage career exploration through project-based learning and teamwork.

More information about the contest and this years winners can be found here.