The Keystone Competition 

Date: October 14, 2025

PA Student Competitions are evolving to better inspire, engage, and impact students across Pennsylvania through the introduction of The Keystone Competition. This exciting, single-day event will replace the current Governor’s STEM Competition, making it more accessible and inclusive for all learners. The redesigned format invites students in three grade bands; 5-6, 7-8, and 9-12, to collaborate, innovate, and problem-solve in a dynamic, hands-on environment.

Teams:

Students will compete in teams of up to 5 students.  Only one team per grade band, per building can register.

An Inspiring Kickoff and Challenge

The day will begin with a statewide virtual keynote address that connects all participants, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. At the conclusion of the presentation, the speaker will unveil the day’s challenge—a real-world problem requiring innovative solutions.

Teams will then embark on their design journey, imagining, creating, and prototyping solutions within the day. Whether their solution is a digital product, physical prototype, or conceptual model, students will have the freedom to think big, collaborate, and showcase their creativity.

A Launchpad for Future Innovation

The Keystone STEM-a-Thon is designed not only as a stand-alone event but also as a stepping stone to other innovation opportunities. The ideas and skills students cultivate during the STEM-a-Thon can inspire participation in additional challenges such as Invention Convention or PA Media & Design. By fostering creative confidence and problem-solving skills, the STEM-a-Thon empowers students to become active participants in the innovation pipeline.

Awards:

IUs will determine winners locally using judges. Each grade should have a first, second, and third-place winner. If IUs choose to, they may use the local funding to purchase medals or trophies for these winners. 

Grades 5-6: 1st, 2nd, 3rd

Grades 7-8: 1st, 2nd, 3rd

Grades 9-12: 1st, 2nd, 3rd