NSSEO students recently participated in the Illinois AI Challenge, a new statewide competition for students in grades 6 through 12 that encourages young innovators to develop AI-based solutions to real-world community challenges. The initiative aligns with the President’s AI Challenge and provides students with access to expert feedback, helping strengthen their ideas for both state and national recognition.
For their project, NSSEO students created an app designed to support recycling efforts in the Northwest Chicago suburbs. The app offers community members an accessible way to donate or receive used items while also providing educational resources about local recycling options. By encouraging reuse and recycling, the students hope their solution will reduce waste, strengthen community connections, and contribute to a healthier environment. The team shared their vision through a video pitch, showcasing both their technical creativity and commitment to making a positive impact beyond the classroom.
