Student Challenges
The Keystone Competition
A FREE, one-day STEM challenge for students in grades 7-12! No prep required—just bring your creativity and problem-solving skills. Work in teams up to 5 students to tackle real-world challenges, design innovative solutions, and showcase your ideas. It’s a hands-on, fun experience with no barriers to participation—get ready to innovate and inspire!
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Teams of students in the following grade bands: Grades 7–8, Grades 9–12
Competition will be held at IU5
November 21st, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. with registration starting at 8:45am.
Please e-mail studentprograms@iu5.org for more information.
Stem Design Challenge
Each fall, students are presented a challenge. They have until the competition date to design a prototype using K'Nex® or Engino. On the day of the event, they will have 2 hours to construct their prototype from scratch. Additionally, they must prepare a blueprint, maintain a design notebook, and deliver a 2-minute presentation to the judges.
Rules:
- Teams of up to 4 students (maximum)
- Prototype is to be built out of K’Nex® or Engino, up to 1400 pieces, using at least 1 motor. String, tape & rubber bands are permitted.
- Middle School teams will need to complete a budget of the pieces used.
Regional competition will be held at IU5
April 13th, 2026 for Grades 4&5 and April 14th, 2026 for Grades 6-8 from 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Please e-mail studentprograms@iu5.org for more information.
Challenge 24
2026 Regional Math 24 Tournament
Students will compete in a 4 round tournament using the First In Math®, 24®Game.
- Round 1 – Single Digits
- Round 2 – Double Digits
- Round 3 – Variables (Semi-Finals)
- Round 4 – Double Variables (Finals)
Regional competition will be held at IU5
May 18, 2026 for Grades 4&5 and May 19th, 2026 for Grades 6-8 from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00p.m.
Please e-mail studentprograms@iu5.org for more information.
PA Invention Convention Challenge
2026 PA Invention Convention
October 31: Submit Your Intent to Participate*
November 30: Submit materials online as per the Virtual Submission Guidelines
Pennsylvania Scholastic Esports League Region 6
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Empowering Pennsylvania's Next Generation Through Scholastic Esports
At the Pennsylvania Scholastic Esports League (PSEL), our passion lies in transforming the educational landscape by integrating competitive esports with essential learning and career readiness. Led by the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) and affiliated with the North America Scholastic Esports Federation (NASEF), we are dedicated to providing a safe, structured, and inclusive environment for students across Pennsylvania. We prioritize learning and inclusivity, ensuring all students have opportunities to develop critical skills for their future.
For more information on starting an Esports team, visit the PSEL6 website below and click the links to email or call Joy Shaffer
