• Manatee County students from Palmetto High School and Braden River High School recently won national championships at the Technology Student Association (TSA) National Conference. The Palmetto High School team took first place in the Architectural Design competition, designing a sustainable housing development that incorporated green technology and renewable energy sources. The Braden River High School team won the Transportation Modeling competition, creating a model of a high-speed rail system that addressed transportation challenges.

• The TSA National Conference, held in Washington, D.C., brought together over 8,000 middle and high school students from across the United States to compete in various STEM-related events. The competitions covered a wide range of topics, including engineering, technology, and design, allowing students to showcase their skills and problem-solving abilities.

• Vin Mannix, a columnist for the Bradenton Herald, highlighted the achievements of the Manatee County students, praising their hard work, dedication, and the support they received from their schools and communities. The victories demonstrate the strength of the STEM education programs in Manatee County and the potential of local students to excel on a national stage.