Adrian, MI – Students from across Lenawee County put their knowledge and teamwork to the test during the Lenawee Regional Challenge, held on February 17, 2026, at the Adrian Public Schools Performing Arts Center.
This year’s competition, You be the Solution, brought together 55 students from Adrian, Blissfield, Onsted, and Tecumseh for a fast-paced academic competition focused on chemistry. Working in teams of three to four students, participants competed through a series of four rounds, each made up of ten challenging questions. Teams collaborated under pressure, relying on both chemistry knowledge and strong communication to earn points throughout the event.
With families and friends filling the audience as spectators, the atmosphere was energetic and supportive as students demonstrated their ability to think critically and work together.
At the conclusion of the competition, Tecumseh’s team earned first place, while Onsted teams claimed both second and third place honors, highlighting the strength of chemistry learning across the county.
The first-place team from Tecumseh included Reed Philip, Colin Marsh, and Annabelle Beyer. The second-place team from Onsted included Molly Stoos, Jesse Purdue, Logan Sierra, and Sylas Johnstone, while the third-place team from Onsted included Samarah Huffman, Olivia Knipp, and Haileigh Helminiak.
Each participating school was supported by dedicated educators who helped guide students through the experience. Adrian’s team was led by Liz Hughes, Blissfield’s team was led by Katie Heineman, Onsted’s team was led by Noelle Martell and Will Ochoa, and Tecumseh’s team was led by Eryn Stamper and Jon Way.
The Lenawee Regional Challenge was made possible through the combined efforts of the Lenawee Chemical Collaborative, Lenawee Now, the Lenawee Intermediate School District, and Adrian Public Schools. The event was sponsored by PPG, Lenawee Now’s ALIGN Lenawee Talent Consortium, Evonik, W2Fuel, Anderson Development Company, Wacker, the Lenawee Intermediate School District, and Adrian Public Schools.
The competition was facilitated by LISD staff members Jackie Murray, Science Curriculum Consultant, and Kerry Nieman, Stubnitz Environmental Education Center Coordinator, whose leadership helped ensure a successful event for students and spectators alike.
As Lenawee County continues to invest in STEM education and career readiness, events like the Lenawee Regional Challenge provide students with meaningful opportunities to deepen their learning, build confidence, and connect academics with future pathways.
Tecumseh's first place team (left to right): Colin Marsh, Reed Philip, Annabelle Beyer and LISD Superintendent Mark Haag
Onsted's second place team (left to right) : Teacher Noelle Martell, Jesse Purdue, Molly Stoos, Logan Sierra, Sylas Johnstone, teacher Will Ochoa and LISD Superintendent Mark Haag
Onsted's third place team (left to right): Teacher Noelle Martell, Samarah Huffman, Haileigh Helminiak, Olivia Knipp, teacher Will Ochoa and LISD Superintendent Mark Haag