Indian Valley Academy students impressed and inspired the community on April 3 with their annual student Showcase—held for the first time on the high school campus in Greenville. The event highlighted the creativity, curiosity and craftsmanship of IVA’s seventh through twelfth graders, all of whom are required to complete a project each year as part of the school’s hands-on, student-centered curriculum.
This year’s showcase featured approximately 90 student projects spanning a wide range of topics, from hands-on builds and scientific investigations to personal reflections and community-focused work. During the school day, panels of judges made up of IVA instructors and local community leaders evaluated the presentations, offering feedback and selecting standout projects for recognition.
That evening, the campus opened its doors to parents, family members, and the wider community. Attendees filled the space—making it the most well-attended Showcase in recent memory—and were invited to cast their votes for the prestigious People’s Choice awards.
“It was incredible to see the campus packed with people truly interested in what our students are passionate about,” said Veronica Tilton, IVA teacher and Showcase coordinator. “This event is an important event that reflects the school culture and core values of Indian Valley Academy.”
Student Showcase Award Winners
Best in Show – Staff Choice: Liam Moore – “BBQ Smoker”
1st Place – People’s Choice: Annika Kirby – “The Truth of my Feelings”
1st Place – Student Choice: Rowdy Buhr – “Dad’s 53 Ford”
2nd Place – People’s Choice: Sparrow Prince – “Into the Wild”
2nd Place – Student Choice: Jhett Neer – “Smoke Em”
2nd Place – Staff Choice: Wyatt Morris – “Building Power”
3rd Place – People’s Choice: Amaiya Beatty – “Gather Around”
3rd Place – Student Choice: Sheldon Foster – “Grandpa’s Jeep”
3rd Place – Staff Choice: Jura Lunder – “Forged”
Winners received cash prizes: $125 for Best in Show, $100 for first place, $75 for second place and $50 for third place.
The IVA student Showcase continues to be a powerful platform for students to express themselves, dive deeply into topics of personal interest and build confidence through public presentation. As part of the process, each student is required to work with a mentor—often an expert, business owner or professional from the local community—who helps guide the project and deepen the student’s understanding of their chosen topic. The event serves as a bridge between the school and the wider Indian Valley community, one of many ways IVA fosters connection and celebrates student achievement.