The Learning Collaborative at Dent

Our 8th graders had one final educational experience before we sent them home for summer break. Former TLCer and current SVHS student Gisele Atim brought the exciting world of polymers to Dent Middle. Students learned about polymers, engaged in a Q & A, learned the importance of polymers in medical fields, and even had a little play time with Orbeez!

It is always a treat when former students return to help and inspire our students. Thank you for this special treat, Gisele!

Science fair has always been a large part of Mrs. Franco’s 8th grade TLC science class. This year, completing a science fair project was optional. The following 17 students committed to the challenge of an independent project, and this year, INDEPENDENT was taken to a new level. Students participated in the Region II science fair at USC on April 20. All projects were placed into 4 categories: Honorable Mention, Projects of Distinction, Projects of High Distinction, and Projects of Highest Distinction. We could not be more proud of all that these students have accomplished.

Please congratulate these young scientists on a job well done!

🚲🔬Science Fair Awards 2026🧫🥼

Animal Science
Highest Distinction - Peyton McKever

Behavioral & Social Sciences
High Distinction - Gabriella Grassi

Biology & Biomedical Sciences
Highest Distinction - Zoey Sangal
High Distinction - Patri Holland; Sri Nagiri; Sujan Pasala
Distinction - Anaahat Singh; Aishah Shaikh

Environmental Science & Engineering
Highest Distinction - Mary Grassi

Engineering Technology
Highest Distinction - Kevin Arya & Vivaan Pinglikar
High Distinction - Ji Hoon Bae
Distinction - Emmett Sample

Physics & Astronomy
Highest Distinction - Murtaza Siddiqui; Melina Phan

Plant Science
Highest Distinction - Sree Palakurthi
Distinction - Alishba Amir

🌟✍️ Huge congratulations to Evelyn Meservy and Sree Palakurthi for their incredible achievement in the Lumiere Scholars Essay Contest this spring!

Both students earned the prestigious Excellence Award along with a $1,000 scholarship to the Lumiere Education Junior Explorer Program for their outstanding essays. 🏆📚

Even more impressive—Evelyn’s and Sree’s work was selected from more than 500 submissions representing 48 countries around the world! 🌎✨

We are so proud of these talented writers and scholars for representing our school with creativity, insight, and excellence. Congratulations, Evelyn and Sree! 🎉👏

Our 7th Grade World Showcase was nothing short of incredible.

This interdisciplinary project integrated all four core subjects into one powerful experience. Our 7th graders tackled global issues through documentaries and mock trials and absolutely delivered.

From research to presentation, they demonstrated critical thinking, collaboration, and confidence at such a high level. So proud of these students. This was amazing to watch!



Dent Middle SchoolRichland School District Two Magnet Schools of America

Month of the Military Child: Easing school transitions for military students Moving to a new school can be challenging for any student. For military children, it’s something they experience again and again.

🧬🔬 Our 8th Grade TLC scholars stepped into the role of real scientists this week!

Our scholars became genetic researchers while participating in a Genetics & Inheritance lab with Greenwood Genetic Center. Students used real lab equipment to conduct gel electrophoresis and analyze DNA while solving the mystery of Sasha the Calico Cat.

Their scientific investigation revealed the truth behind Sasha’s genetic disguise! 🐱🔬
Thank you to Greenwood Genetic Center for providing this incredible hands-on experience for our students!

Interested in joining The Learning Collaborative? It is not too late! The second Choice window opens April 1st. Don't miss out!

🎉💎 BIG NEWS! 💎🎉
The Learning Collaborative has been named a Magnet Schools of America Merit Award Winner: School of Excellence! 🏆

This honor reflects the incredible work happening in our classrooms every day—high expectations, deep thinking, meaningful collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence. We are beyond proud of our students and staff for the dedication, perseverance, and teamwork that made this possible. TLC shines because of YOU! ✨

We are excited to represent our school community as we are officially recognized at the National Magnet Schools of America Conference in San Diego this April! 🌟

Magnet Schools of America Dent Middle School

🎉CONGRATS! The winner of the 2026 Quiz Whiz Middle School Academic Tournament is !