Arkansas Students Shine in National STEM Competitions
Students from across Arkansas are earning national recognition for their achievements in mathematics, science, and engineering competitions, showcasing the talent, dedication, and innovation emerging from schools throughout the state.
From national mathematics rankings to international science fair awards and advancement to the National Science Bowl庐 Finals, Arkansas students continue to demonstrate excellence in STEM education.
Arkansas Team Wins Two Awards at MATHCOUNTS Nationals
Arkansas students delivered an impressive performance at the 2026 RTX MATHCOUNTS National Competition, where the state team placed 14th overall in the nation while competing against top teams from across the United States and U.S. territories. This team was also named Most Improved Overall nationally.
The Arkansas team included:
- Ryan Fan, Woodland Junior High School
- Vivek Kalyankar, Woodland Junior High School
- Evan Ning, Woodland Junior High School
- Charlie Yao, non-school competitor from Conway, Arkansas
The team was coached by Nat Thomas Jr. of Woodland Junior High School.
Two Arkansas students also earned standout individual rankings at the national competition:
- Ryan Fan finished 15th overall
- Vivek Kalyankar finished 27th overall
Both students are currently in the eighth grade.
The RTX MATHCOUNTS National Competition brings together top middle school mathematics students from every U.S. state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Department of Defense and State Department schools worldwide.
Central Arkansas Students Earn Awards at International Science and Engineering Fair
The University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo also celebrates the accomplishments of Central Arkansas students who competed at this year鈥檚 International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Phoenix, Arizona.
Central Arkansas was represented by six student competitors, who collectively earned:
- Two category awards
- One specialty award
ISEF is one of the world鈥檚 largest international STEM research competitions for high school students, bringing together young scientists and engineers from around the globe to present innovative research projects and compete at the highest level.
The success of these students reflects not only their hard work and curiosity but also the dedication of the teachers, mentors, and families who supported them throughout the process.
Fayetteville High School Advances to National Science Bowl庐 Finals
Fayetteville High School earned another major STEM achievement for Arkansas by winning the 2026 National Science Bowl庐 regional competition and securing a place in the National Finals in Washington, D.C.
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy, the National Science Bowl庐 challenges students in a fast-paced academic competition covering:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Earth science
- Energy
- Mathematics
The Fayetteville team will compete against top teams from across the country during the National Finals this spring.
Now in its 36th year, the National Science Bowl庐 has engaged approximately 350,000 students nationwide and continues to encourage students to pursue careers and education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Celebrating STEM Excellence Across Arkansas
These achievements highlight the strength of STEM education across Arkansas and the potential of students statewide. The University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo is proud to celebrate their success, along with the educators, mentors, schools, and families who support them.