Solano County Students Shine at Winged Migration STEAM Challenge

Young artists, musicians, and innovators recognized for exceptional work

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Solano County Office of Education recently recognized student winners of the 2026 Winged Migration STEAM Challenge, a partnership between SCOE and the Winged Migration Expo that invited students across the county to explore bird migration, habitat conservation, ecosystems, and environmental stewardship through creative, hands-on projects in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. Projects were displayed at the Winged Migration Expo, where families and community members celebrated student creativity and learned about birds, migration patterns, and conservation efforts.

Why it matters

The Winged Migration STEAM Challenge provided a unique opportunity for Solano County students to apply their STEAM learning to real-world environmental issues, fostering creativity, innovation, and a deeper connection to the natural world. By showcasing student work, the event highlighted the exceptional talent and promise of the next generation of scientists, artists, and problem-solvers in the local community.

The details

Students submitted projects in multiple categories, including Best Overall, Best Art/Mixed Media, Best Engineering/Design Project, and Best Migration Project. Winners were recognized across three grade-level divisions: Explorers (K-2), Investigators (3-5), and Innovators (6-8). The challenge was supported by educators from across the Solano County Unified School Districts, as well as community partners like Brickspace Benicia.

  • The Winged Migration STEAM Challenge took place at the Winged Migration Expo on Mare Island recently.
  • The challenge was a partnership between the Solano County Office of Education and the Winged Migration Expo in 2026.

The players

Solano County Office of Education

The county office of education that organized the Winged Migration STEAM Challenge in partnership with the Winged Migration Expo.

Winged Migration Expo

An event that celebrates bird migration and conservation efforts in Solano County, where the STEAM Challenge projects were displayed.

Dr. Nicola Parr

The Solano County Superintendent of Schools, who remarked that the STEAM Challenge connects learning to the world around us.

Steph Morgado

The Program Manager for STEAM and Robotics at the Solano County Office of Education, who oversees future STEAM opportunities.

Dior Jones

A student from Vallejo City Unified School District who won Best Overall in the Explorers (K-2) category.

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What they’re saying

“The inaugural STEAM Challenge was such a fun showcase of Solano County students' creativity and ingenuity. It was inspiring to see how they're using STEAM learning to shine a light on the importance of protecting our migratory species.”

— Steph Morgado, Program Manager, STEAM and Robotics, Solano County Office of Education (thereporter.com)

“The Winged Migration STEAM Challenge connects learning to the world around us. When students have opportunities to be creative with a concept they have learned, the learning comes to life.”

— Dr. Nicola Parr, Solano County Superintendent of Schools (thereporter.com)

What’s next

The Solano County Office of Education plans to continue the Winged Migration STEAM Challenge as an annual event, providing more opportunities for students to engage with environmental issues and showcase their STEAM skills.

The takeaway

The Winged Migration STEAM Challenge demonstrates the power of hands-on, project-based learning to inspire the next generation of scientists, artists, and environmental stewards in Solano County. By connecting classroom concepts to real-world challenges, the event fosters creativity, innovation, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.