By: Richard L. Smith
A group of students from Pond Road Middle School has been named finalists in the STEAM Tank Challenge, a statewide competition that challenges students to develop creative solutions to real-world problems through science, technology, engineering, arts, and math.
Students Vihaan Ganesh, Jackson Koehler, Madison Beaver, Kavya Ahuja, and Brandon Preiss earned recognition for their invention, Hydrobreeze—an innovative device designed to combat mold growth in reusable water bottles by drying them efficiently while also incorporating mold-detection indicators.
The team will present their project during the week of May 19 to a panel of judges representing the New Jersey School Boards Association.
Hydrobreeze was developed in response to a common issue many people face with reusable bottles: difficulty fully drying them, which can lead to mold buildup and frequent replacements.
The students’ solution is a rechargeable, battery-operated fan that circulates air through the bottle, paired with instant mold test swabs.
The team is currently working on expanding the concept to include both a portable travel version and a larger at-home unit.
The competition has drawn participation from thousands of students across hundreds of school districts statewide, with programs often integrated into classroom learning and STEM curricula.
Jennifer Closson, a STEM teacher at Pond Road and the team’s advisor, has guided the students throughout the process as they refine their prototype for the final round.
The students were also recognized for their achievement during a Board of Education meeting on April 28.
Madison “Maddie” Beaver expressed excitement about the opportunity, noting that the team is eager to present their invention and see their idea continue to grow.
According to organizers, the challenge encourages collaboration and innovation while prompting students to consider the environmental and societal impacts of their ideas.
Dr. Timothy Purnell, executive director of the New Jersey School Boards Association, said the program continues to inspire students to become future entrepreneurs, scientists, and problem-solvers.
The competition remains ongoing as finalists prepare for their presentations later this month.