Two Miami Springs Elementary fifth-grade students recently won first place in the District Science Fair for Projects and/or Inventions.

“This is the first time in my career here that a student placed in showcasing their work,” said Principal Sally Hutchings. “To have two of them is outstanding.”

The school sent four projects and students to the Saturday event and at the end of the day about 40 students were recognized for first place. Benet Sieg and Benjamin Jarrell were honored with medals for scoring 93 percent.

Hockey player Benjamin invented a device called The Skate Clam that automatically holds an ice skate in place for easier lacing.

“I’ve always had trouble tying my skates without my father’s help, so this is a big help for me,” said Benjamin.

He said dad Howard Jarrell helped with jigsawing and obtaining parts. After making improvements, Benjamin is hoping to see if the invention is marketable. 

Benet’s physical science Sour Power project showed how citrus fruit generates electricity. He used an orange, lemon and a lime; inserted a nail with a copper wire into each fruit and tested the electricity with an analog multi-meter. The lime produced enough electricity to power a small light bulb.

“I did research on the Internet and my mom (MSSH drama teacher Marielva Sieg) helped,” said Benet.

Hutchings said, “I’m extremely proud of them. I feel that they made me a star.”