Tenth grader at Manumalo Academy, Rachel Park, is the overall winner of the 2026 Territorial Science Fair, High School Division.
Her biochemistry project evaluated breadfruit as a renewable source for biofuel. Her study explored the potential, renewability and efficiency of bioethanol derived from breadfruit pulp and peels. A summary of her project published in the Science Fair program said the significance of this study lies in the assessment of breadfruits’ viability as a renewable biofuel source, capable of reducing reliance on fossil fuels while providing a sustainable energy solution for regions with abundant breadfruit cultivation.
Alana Joserose, 10th grader at Pacific Horizons School placed second. Her project looked at novel and accessible seed priming agents turmeric powder and isosorbide dinitrate enhancing seed germination and stress resilience under salinity.
Senior Kim Gerald Garcia of Faasao Marist High School placed 3rd. His project explored management strategies for the Aunu’u wetlands. Yoon Seo Pyo, 11th grader of Pacific Horizons School placed 4th. Her project was titled: A Deep Learning Food Recognition System for Nutritional Assessment and Disease Risk Management in American Samoa.
The top four winners from the high school division are now eligible to represent American Samoa at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) 2026, which will take place at the Phoenix Convention Center, Phoenix, Arizona May 9-15, 2026.
In the Elementary Division Skylar Montalbo, 8th grader at Pacific Horizons School topped Cluster 6-8. Dante Sene, 8th grader at Manulele Tausala placed second and Michelle Park 7th grader at Manumalo Academy placed 3rd.
In the Cluster 3-5 Division, Tapaaulefano Magalei 4th grader at Pavaiai Elementary and Ruminah Cendrowski 5th grader at Siliaga School shared first place. James Tagarino 3rd grader at South Pacific Academy placed 2nd and third place went to D’Angeline Siimalevao, 5th grader at Faleasao Elementary.
An awards ceremony for the 2026 Territorial Science Fair was held Thursday at the DWYA Center in Tafuna. More than 350 students from private and public schools competed in this year’s fair held February 2-5. The American Samoa Department of Education extended appreciation to all businesses, government agencies and individuals who donated to the fair and acknowledged grant assistance from USDOE.
Photo: L-R First place overall-Rachel Park, Manumalo Academy, 2nd, Alana Joserose, Pacific Horizons, 3rd, Kim Garcia, Faasao Marist & 4th,Yoon Seo Pyo, Pacific Horizons
