Skyridge Student Wins 3 Washington State Science, Engineering Awards

Aaria Lankireddy from Skyridge Middle School won three awards at the Washington State Science and Engineering Fair (WSSEF) on April 5. Aaria was awarded first place in 6th grade for the Thermo Fisher Scientific for Advancing Equity Through Innovation Award & Oral Health Care Award by the Washington State Dental Association with an invitation to present her science project at the PNW Dental Conference. 

Her scientific research project was titled: “Can Himalayan and Bolivian Pink Salt Gum Reduce Dental Plaque Without Impacting Blood Pressure?” Aaria participated in the after school Youth Research Scholar club at Skyridge, which was run by mentors from the Camas High School Magnet program. This opened up a whole new door of opportunities in conducting science STEM research skills for middle schoolers. Aaria made a new innovative discovery in her research with the two types of pink salt incorporated as two new dental gum flavors that helps in removing dental plaque and improves oral health. She gives special thanks to all her volunteer helpers, her MST mentors at Camas High School and to NHS Oral Consultant, Dr Sekhar Reddy, MDS, FRCSed, UK for his professional guidance. 

Aaria is also selected for Clark County Youth Achievement Award for her contribution to the community in enhancing elementary literacy reading skills from the age of 8 when the COVID-19 pandemic began. Her love of books was instilled by her 1st grade teacher at Prune Hill Elementary, Patti Landers and Librarian Sharon Loniewski. 

Aaria has for years championed community engagement in literacy ideas, guiding fun books to youngsters, hosting readings at book stores and reaching out via social media platforms during the pandemic. 

At the age of 12, Aaria will now receive a commemorative pin and Youth Achievement Award certificate by Clark County in late May.