Imagine a student asking to grow bacteria for a project during a worldwide pandemic. A sophisticated, university-level lab is required but not available. If you are a Beehive Academy of Science and Technology teacher, you convert a lab into the required BSL-1 (Biosafety Level 1). As teacher Kerrie Upenieks states, “Making the modifications was an easy decision to make. I always try to support my students and give them opportunities to reach their goals.” This dedication to STEM education and Beehive Academy’s state-of-the-art facilities allowed alumnus Aiden Pasinsky to dive deep into the world of marine biology and hone his problem-solving skills.
Aiden is now a freshman at Duke University. His research experience at Beehive not only helped him get into Duke but also helped him secure a position on a marine conservation project and get work in a lab with bacteria growth models. As a double major in biomedical engineering and computer science, he still finds time to speak to several of his Beehive friends daily.
Aiden began at Beehive in sixth grade after leaving his private school and looking at a variety of district and charter schools. Aiden remembers his father asking him, “Where do you think you’ll learn the most?” After choosing Beehive, Aiden participated in robotics during middle school. He credits Mr. Bryant with fostering his love of engineering in eighth grade. “He would modify lessons on what his students wanted to know,” Aiden recalls.
A couple of years later, when watching a TED Talk by Penny Chisholm, MIT Oceanographer, Aiden became fascinated by the cyanobacterium Prochlorococcus. This ocean-based cyanobacterium provides as much photosynthesis as all the world’s earth-based plants. He developed an idea for modifying the bacteria to build resistance to the rising ocean temperatures, and his journey began.
Because of the smaller-sized institution, Beehive was able to accommodate Aiden’s request to perform research and was dedicated to seeing him succeed. Aiden experienced unwavering support, prompting him to reflect, “Everyone’s in your corner.” He had several mentors, including science teacher Kerrie Upenieks, who helped prepare him for science fairs and other competitions. He even reached out to Dr. Chisholm to discuss his progress during the summers. Aiden worked on his Prochlorococcus research throughout high school.
Aiden’s commitment to scientific exploration was rewarded. His work earned him numerous accolades, including a Silver Medal at the International Genius Olympiad and a spot as a Finalist at the International Science and Engineering Fair. Additionally, he received the prestigious National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Award twice for his research on Prochlorococcus, highlighting the significance of his contributions to marine science. He also received the Grand Award at the Utah Science and Engineering Fair.
The school’s emphasis on academic excellence was matched by its commitment to fostering personal growth and character development. Aiden participated on the student council, in Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), in speech and debate for the Utah Technology Student Association and was a Sterling Scholar Finalist. His graduating class is close with one another, and he maintains relationships with “over a dozen of them.”
Aiden appreciated the support of all the teachers and administration at Beehive. He said, “You get out what you put in, but they will make every effort to push you to great heights.” Aiden’s remarkable achievements and continued connection with his Beehive peers exemplify the values and educational excellence upheld by the Beehive Academy of Science and Technology. His journey serves as an inspiring testament to the impact of exceptional education, community support and the pursuit of one’s passions in shaping a bright and promising future.
Beehive Science and Technology Academy was named #1 Best High School in Utah and #116 Best High School in the nation by 2023 U.S. News & World Report. To learn more about Beehive Academy, visit www.beehiveacademy.org.
