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The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) 14th Annual South Central Ohio Science Bowl was a record year of competition with 40 teams, the most in the event’s history, representing 21 schools from Pike, Scioto, Ross and Jackson counties.
Valley High School was again this year’s winner and will compete in the National Science Bowl in Washington, D.C., in April. Notre Dame High School, Wheelersburg High School, and Zane Trace High School rounded out this year’s final four.

Front from left to right, Department of Energy Acting Portsmouth Site Lead Jud Lilly, Nathan Canter, Alex Smith, Abigail Gullett, Myles DeAtley, Reagan Rolfe, ETAS Public Affairs Specialist Melissa Green. Back row left to right, Valley Science Bowl Coach Justin Howard, Department of Energy Strategic Planner Greg Simonton and Southern Ohio Cleanup Company Program Manager Pat Timbes
“The excitement for Science Bowl just continues to grow, and to have a record number of 40 teams competing is a testament to how much our local schools value this opportunity,” Acting DOE Portsmouth Site Lead Jud Lilly said.
This is Valley High Schools third championship in a row.
“It was definitely a lot more pressure coming in and knowing that everyone has a target on you,” said Valley Science Bowl Coach Justin Howard. “I told the team to take it one match at a time and try not to think about the championship match.”
The team from Valley High School will receive an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C., to compete in the National Science Bowl April 30-May 4. In addition to competing with teams from across the country, the students will also get the opportunity to participate in science activities and tour the city.



