Glengarry students earn gold at UCDSB SKLZ competition

Students from Glengarry District High School made a strong impression at the 2026 Intermediate SKLZ Competition, held April 7 in Kemptville, showcasing their creativity, teamwork, and technical skills among 130 participants from across the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB).

The annual competition brought together Grade 7 and 8 students from nine schools to compete in six categories, including Construction Challenge (tiny homes), Green Energy (wind turbine construction), LEGO Mechanical Engineering, LEGO Robotics, Technology Challenge (hydraulic crane), and TV/Video production.

Among the highlights, a team from Glengarry District High School earned gold in the Construction Challenge (Tiny Homes) category. Students Shelby McRae, Alieke Schaafsma, Colt Walker, and Oakley Williams were recognized for their innovative design, problem-solving skills, and strong collaboration.

Glengarry students were also active in other categories. Georgia Moyle, representing Glengarry District High School in the Technology Challenge, emphasized the value of teamwork and shared learning.

“It’s really fun to collaborate and meet other students with the same interests,” Moyle said. “By working together, we can see how different ideas come together within the project.”

Pleasant Corners Public School in Vankleek Hill also participated in the Technology Challenge competition by constructing a hydraulic crane.

Launched in 2018, the SKLZ Competition highlights innovation and hands-on learning, challenging students to apply real-world design and engineering concepts. The event is supported by local industry professionals, educators, and technical specialists who volunteer as judges.

While students from across the UCDSB demonstrated impressive talent, Glengarry’s strong showing reflects the school’s commitment to fostering practical skills, creativity, and collaboration among its students.

Gold medal winners from each category will go on to represent the UCDSB at the Skills Ontario Provincial Competition in Toronto on May 4 and 5, 2026.