Colleton County High School excitedly buzzed on March 20, 2025, as students unveiled their groundbreaking projects and career aspirations at the Cougar Expo 2025. The event, a testament to the school’s commitment to fostering innovation and academic excellence, featured various projects spanning science, technology, agriculture, and the arts.
Ms. Rachana Bhonsle’s students took center stage by participating in the prestigious Plant the Moon Challenge. This global science experiment and research challenge tasked students with exploring the feasibility of growing vegetable crops in lunar soil. Each team received a pack of lunar regolith simulant from the University of Central Florida’s CLASS Exolith Lab. Students meticulously designed and conducted experiments for eight weeks, documenting their findings.
The students used the Project Guide to meticulously define their experimental parameters, including plant growth setup, water usage, and nutrient/fertilizer application. Following this growth, they will submit comprehensive project reports, join a global network, and contribute to NASA’s efforts to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon. This project, sponsored by the NASA SC Space Grant Consortium, underscored the students’ dedication to scientific inquiry and their role in shaping the future of space exploration.
Ms. Bhonsle’s class also presented “The Hydroponic System for Sustainable Farming of Medicinal Herbs.” The project supported by SC Coalition for Mathematics & Science showcased students’ commitment to environmental stewardship, aiming to revolutionize medicinal herb cultivation through innovative hydroponic systems. By minimizing resource usage and eliminating soil degradation, students are paving the way for a more sustainable agricultural model in South Carolina, fostering STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, and Mathematics) education in the region.
The JAG students captivated attendees with their career theme posters, reflecting on the theme “Discover your why, define your way.” Seniors like Nakeria Wilson and freshmen like Myles Bowman honed their public speaking skills, sharing their personal growth and future aspirations with the audience. This opportunity allowed the students to reflect on their career paths and develop communication abilities.
Mr. Jegadeesh Kumar’s Precalculus students showcased their ingenuity by constructing physical models of a Ferris wheel using popsicle sticks, wooden pieces, and hot glue. This Problem-Based Learning project connected real-life mechanisms to trigonometric functions, challenging students to calculate the optimal camera pole height for rider photography. As “construction engineers,” the students applied mathematical principles like amplitude, period, and sinusoidal function shifts to solve real-world problems.
Ms. Alissa Burse’s Biology class presented a comprehensive display of human anatomy. Jakira Holmes led the presentation, with assistance from Camila Cuz Perez and Chase Jones. The display featured detailed diagrams of body tissues, the heart, and paper models of the brain and human body systems. A 3D clay model of muscles further enhanced the educational exhibit.
Ms. Jessica Williams, Colleton County School District Superintendent, and Ms. Lynn Stroble, School Board Chairperson, graced the ceremony with their presence. Ms. Brianne Buckner served as the event’s MC. Projects from Ms. Kimberly Morris, Ms. Cynthia Davis, and Mr. Jolfred Rosendo’s Spanish classes were also displayed, and Genesis Healthcare Inc. provided valuable information to attendees.
The Cougar Expo 2025 was a resounding success, highlighting the exceptional talent and dedication of Colleton County High School students. Their innovative projects and insightful presentations demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence and a passion for shaping a brighter future.
