by Michaela Lamb |

Sounds like the premise for a sci-fi flick. In reality, Battle of the Brains is a city wide competition held at Science City for high school students who have an interest in science, design, or engineering.

Fronted by the local architectural company Burns & McDonnell, Battle of the Brains offers students a chance to create a project of their own and enter it into a contest for a chance at $50,000 to go toward their school and the opportunity to have their project made into an exhibit featured at Science City, a popular field trip and attraction for elementary and middle school students.

The Liberty Team competing is headed by Michelle Fairhurst and Dennis Blochlinger, putting their expertise together to help guide and advise students who join the team.
“Mr. Blochlinger and I are still trying to get it going, but I think when we do it’s going to be really great. I have a lot of faith in our students,” said Fairhurst. “Anyone is welcome to join. Any help that we can get will be great!”
Students are excited as well, “Basically Battle of the Brains is a big contest to see who can create the best space for young children to learn in a fun environment,” said senior Ryan Ogle.

“What I think is really great is that we can compete to get money for the school,” said senior Fallon Laird. “The winning school in each division gets $50,000 and the second place winners get $5,000. We could do a lot with that money.”

Because this is the first year that Battle of the Brains has existed, most students do not even know what it is. “I’ve never heard of it,” said junior Diana Lalata, “But it definitely sounds interesting and like it would be a good way to get money for the school.”
Battle of the Brains offers real world experience and the opportunity to work with architects, engineers and builders for the chance to make their visions a reality in the form of their very own Science City exhibit in 2012.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for students to experience what its like to work in a professional setting,” said Fairhurst. As well as the experience gained, students will come away from Battle from the Brains with professional contacts and a great resume builder.

For those interested in joining, meetings will be held on Mondays after school in room 207.