Since 1989, the Invent Idaho Invention Convention has served as a premier student invention program, providing a forum for thousands of young inventors in first through 12th grades.

Students identify problems and find scientific ways to solve them. Through this process, the young researchers create blueprints, craft invention prototypes, document their processes in log books and record "pitch" presentations explaining their inventions.

"It’s amazing, just to see how they process, how they go from point A to point B," North Idaho regional coordinator Jennifer Hammond said Monday. "That trial-and-error process is so exciting, and those are lifelong character traits. That's a huge lesson for us, especially during COVID, is to take a lead from our students. They aren’t stopping, they are persevering and that’s magic."

For the first time, the regional and state Invent Idaho Invention Convention events will be held and judged virtually. Judging for the North Idaho Regional Invention Convention opens Friday and goes through Sunday.

"However, that doesn’t mean that we can’t still give some great accolades and celebrations for these young inventors who are being creative problem-solvers even in the midst of a pandemic," Invent Idaho co-founder and state coordinator Beth Brubaker said.

One surprise that has occurred amid the COVID pandemic is that participant numbers have increased. Hammond said the regional competition, which includes students from Moscow to the Canadian border, normally has up to 225 participants. This year, three new schools and/or districts have registered, bringing the tally to nearly 300 young inventors.

"Educators and parents are seeking out fresh, innovative pathways for students to engage in learning," Hammond said. "They're getting creative and looking for more interactive STEM activities. This is a great fit for that."

The Idaho Invention Convention is the only program in the Gem State that celebrates student creativity and innovation, while teaching the inventive thinking process in an interdisciplinary curriculum. Young inventors participate in progressive levels of competitions, including three regional events held across Idaho, culminating in an Invent Idaho State Finals event.

The state contest is scheduled for March 5 and 6.

Because of the digital format, judging results are expected to be available in early February.

Info: www.inventidaho.com