Epic Kids - August 2025 by Obstinate Ideas

Big change starts with small actions — and these students are proving it!

BOUNCING EGG

Eggs are delicate and fragile, but this activity will show that with a simple chemical reaction we can give them a bit of bounce.

– HERO MOMENT

Meet the kid who turned lunch into a life-saving moment

– RISING STARS

These young achievers are proving big dreams start early

Page 6 –

HELPING HANDS

Big hearts making a big di erence

Page 7 – HOMEWORK

HACKS

Quick tricks to tackle schoolwork like a pro

Page 8

– CLUBS & HOBBIES

Cool activities to try after the bell rings

Page 9 –

MAKING FRIENDS

Simple ways to make new friends

Pages 10 & 11 –

COVER STORY

Eco Heroes protecting the planet in creative ways

Page 13 –

CAREER DAY

Jobs so cool, you’ll want to try them all

Page 14 –

BOOK CLUB

This month’s can’t-miss page-turners

Page 15

– SCIENCE LAB

A hands-on experiment you can totally do yourself

Page 16 – JUST FOR

FUN

Laughs, games, and all-around silliness

Page 17 – BRAIN

PLAY

Puzzles to stump (and wow) your brain

Page 18 –

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Family fun events you won’t want to miss

Welcome Back, Epic Friends!

August is here, and you know what that means— it’s time to trade in lazy summer mornings for alarm clocks, backpacks, and the smell of freshly sharpened pencils. (Yes, that’s a real smell. And yes, it’s glorious.)

Whether you’re starting kindergarten, stepping into middle school, or anywhere in between, the first day of school is a fresh start. It’s your blank notebook, ready to be filled with new stories, new challenges, and new friendships.

Here at Epic Kids, we’re just as excited as you are. This month’s issue is packed with fun reads to kick o your school year—spotlights on kids doing epic things, ideas for after-school adventures, and a few just-for-fun extras to make you smile. Our mission is simple: to celebrate YOU. We believe that every kid has something unique to o er, whether you’re a budding scientist, an unstoppable athlete, a quiet thinker, or the class comedian.

We also want you to remember this: learning isn’t just what happens inside the classroom. It’s trying a new hobby, asking “why?” (over and over), reading for fun, and even making mistakes and trying again. So this year, say yes to curiosity. Say yes to kindness. And say yes to the big and small moments that make your school year memorable.

Here’s to a year of growth, adventure, and of course— epic stories worth sharing. We can’t wait to tell yours!

Natasha Beal Publisher

Get In Touch:

9635 N. 7th St. #9039 Phoenix, AZ 85020

Submissions and suggestions:

Press Releases:

Submit press releases via email to hello@epickidsaz.com.

Events Calendar:

Submit press releases or event listings including all details to hello@epickidsaz. com. The deadline for the September issue is Septemebr 1.

Advertising:

Contact the sales department by email at hello@epickidsaz.com.

Where to Find Us:

Epic Kids is distributed each month directly into the backpacks of children in K-6 charter and private schools. You can also find us placed in racks where kids and their families are out and about. To see a full list of locations, visit our website.

Stay Connected: facebook.com/EpicKidsAZ @epickidsaz

Staff:

Natasha & Brian Beal / Publishers

Shannon Carrillo / Production & Design

Erica Odello / Ad Design

Notes:

Every e ort is made to avoid errors, misspellings and omissions. If, however, an error comes to your attention, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us.

Lunchtime Hero!

A

ICollege Courses Add Up to Big Success for Valley Eighth Grader Headliners

Scary Moment at Lunch

t was just another regular school day. Kids were laughing, eating, and chatting in the lunchroom when Thomas noticed something unusual. His friend across the table had a lunch tray filled with grapes, carrots, and other little snacks. Suddenly, Thomas heard him start to cry.

“He had a tray with grapes, and it had a tray with some, like, carrots and a lot of little stu , and I saw and I heard him crying, so just like, ‘What’s wrong?‘” Thomas said. “And for a second, I didn’t know what he was doing, but finally I realized as he was choking, so I just decided to do the Heimlich to him.”

Remembering What He Learned

Instead of panicking, Thomas stayed calm. He remembered learning about the Heimlich maneuver, a way to help someone who is choking. Even though most kids his age might freeze, Thomas decided to act fast. He got up, went behind his friend, wrapped his arms around them, and gave quick, firm squeezes to the stomach.

Success!

On the second squeeze — POP! — the piece of food shot out. His friend took a big breath and started smiling again. Everyone at the table cheered and a teacher came over to check that everything was okay.

Staying Calm, Saving the Day

Thomas didn’t brag or call himself a hero. He just felt happy his friend was safe. “I just wanted to help,” he said. But his quick thinking and bravery made a big di erence — and turned an ordinary lunch period into a story no one will forget.

What We Can Learn from Thomas

• Pay attention to people around you — you might notice when someone needs help.

• Stay calm if something unexpected happens.

• You’re never too young to make a di erence!

Most middle school students are still working on mastering pre-algebra. Not Artiola “Arti” Thana! Starting in sixth grade, Arti jumped right into college-level math through Arizona State University Universal Learner Courses. Since then, she’s earned perfect grades in her college classes, and by the end of this semester, she’ll have finished five of them — all before she even starts high school.

“I love being part of a team,” she says. “It teaches you how to communicate and support each other, even when things get tough.”

Outside of school, Arti has a packed schedule. She dances, trains, and is even learning to speak Mandarin Chinese — something she picked up out of curiosity about other cultures. “I like challenging myself,” she explains. “Every time I learn something new, I feel like I’m growing in a good way.”

Hero at Heart

The best part of this story? Thomas showed that you don’t need a cape to be a hero. All it takes is kindness, courage, and the willingness to help.

So next time you’re at lunch, on the playground, or anywhere else, remember: you might be the hero someone needs!

Arti is an eighth grader at ASU Preparatory Academy Polytechnic Middle School, where she’s known for taking on big challenges with a positive attitude. She says her first college class felt like stepping into a whole new world. “I was a little nervous, but I also felt excited,” she remembers. “It pushed me to think di erently and work even harder.” That first step gave her the confidence to keep going, adding more classes each semester.

adding more classes each semester.

Fun Fact: College courses usually take 15 weeks to complete and are designed for adults — but kids like Arti are proving that younger students can succeed, too, with hard work and support.

When she’s not studying, Arti stays busy with sports like volleyball, cheerleading, and track and field. She’s also a member of the National Junior Honor Society and the pre-med club.

Fun Fact: Mandarin Chinese is the most widely spoken language in the world, with more than 1 billion speakers! Her love of exploring the world has shaped her big dreams for the future. She hopes to become a lawyer, combining her interest in solving mysteries with her desire to help people. She’s already working toward her bachelor’s degree in business management — a goal she hopes to complete before graduating high school.

Balancing so many activities isn’t always easy, but Arti has figured out what works for her. “These courses have helped me develop independent problem-solving skills,” she says. “I use any free time I have — whether after school or on weekends — to stay on track. Even if it’s only 20 minutes, I try to make it count.”

Arti’s advice for other students? Don’t be afraid to take on a challenge. “Stay close to your teachers and parents, and make a plan,” she says. “Big goals might seem impossible at first, but if you work toward them a little at a time, you’ll be surprised at what you can do.”

Her story is proof that you don’t have to wait until yto start building your future. Whether it’s in the classroom, on the field, or in the community, Arti is showing that hard work, curiosity, and a love of learning can take you further than you imagine.

Lights, Camera… ACTION! Headliners

SomePeoria Unified high school students are shining like stars! They were nominated for special awards called the Rocky Mountain Emmys — kind of like the Oscars, but for student filmmakers.

What’s the Rocky Mountain Emmy?

These awards are given to kids in the Southwest who make awesome movies, TV shows, and videos. With help from their amazing teachers, the students worked hard all year — writing scripts, filming scenes, and editing until their projects looked fantastic.

The PSBN Crew

They didn’t just learn in class. Many joined the Peoria Student Broadcasting Network (PSBN), where they get to:

• Film sports games

• Record theater performances

• Announce the morning news

• Even make real commercials!

It’s just like working at a real TV station — with professional cameras, lights, and editing tools.

Learning Skills for the Future

They’re not just having fun — they’re learning big-time skills!

Many even earn a special certificate called the Adobe Certified Associate, which proves they know how to use the same tools the pros do.

Doing What They Love

Some of these students may grow up to make movies, report the news, or work in TV. But for now, they’re doing what they love — telling stories, being creative, and learning cool stu along the way.

Your Turn!

What do you love to do? Maybe it’s drawing, playing an instrument, building things, or making funny videos. Try it out, keep learning, and most importantly — have fun! Who knows? One day you could be the one walking down the red carpet.

Cool things to know about making movies and TV! FILM & TV

Fun Film & TV Facts

Did You Know?

The very first movie camera was invented over 130 years ago! Movies used to be completely silent — no talking, no sound e ects, no music.

The clapperboard (the thing that goes “clap!” before a scene) is used so editors can match the sound to the picture.

TV Time

The first color TV broadcast in the U.S. was in 1954.

On TV sets, fake food is often made from weird things — like mashed potatoes for

ice cream, so it doesn’t melt under the lights!

Try This!

Want to make your own mini movie?

• Think of a short story (less than 2 minutes).

• Use a phone or tablet to record it.

• Try adding music or sound e ects to make it even more fun.

Who knows? Your movie might be the first step toward walking your own red carpet one day!

Teen Volunteer Keeps Local History Alive at Cave Creek Museum Headliners

Photo by Fran Booth

This summer, Devin Earley discovered a way to combine learning, helping, and fun—by volunteering at the Cave Creek Museum.

Devin, who is about to enter the eighth grade at Sonoran Trails Middle School, spends part of his free time pitching in at the museum and preserving Arizona history for visitors to enjoy.

The opportunity came about with help from his dad. “We were looking for places I could work during the summer and some weekends,” Devin explains. “The museum was interested in having me involved, so my dad and I talked to a representative to figure out what kinds of tasks were needed.”

Volunteering also helps Devin work toward his school’s Super Attendance Challenge community service award, but he says it’s more than just logging hours—it’s learning new skills and contributing to something bigger.

Hands-On History

Recently, Devin has been helping treat wood for a new platform that will support Arizona’s only working historic stamp mill—a massive machine used to crush ore during the state’s gold-mining days.

He’s been working alongside the museum’s “dream team,” the skilled group of volunteers who restored the stamp mill from scratch several years ago. Devin has also polished antique miners’ helmets for an upcoming exhibit, carefully preparing them so they shine for visitors.

His favorite part? Getting to handle real artifacts and see them become part of the museum experience.

Wise Words to Live By

Devin shares a favorite quote from Dr. Seuss:

“You will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.”

It’s a reminder that every moment spent helping at the museum builds

memories—not just for him, but for guests who enjoy the exhibits he’s helped prepare.

Looking Ahead

Devin’s interests are growing along with his skills. “I’m interested in working in the museum’s gift store and working with computers,” he says. “I’m having fun and learning a lot along the way. I like being busy.”

He encourages other young people to give volunteering a try. “You learn things you’d never get to experience anywhere else,” he says.

About The Museum

The Cave Creek Museum has been part of the community for more than 55 years, sharing exciting stories about Arizona’s mining history, desert life, and the people who helped shape this area.

When you visit, you can watch Arizona’s only working historic stamp mill crush ore just like it did in the gold-rush days, explore exhibits filled with old-time tools, and see fascinating artifacts discovered in the Cave Creek area.

There are also interactive exhibits and special events that make history feel real and exciting.

It’s a great place to explore, discover something new, and maybe even volunteer—just like Devin. To learn more or find out how to volunteer, call 480-488-2764 or visit cavecreekmuseum.org.

The museum is located at 6140 E. Skyline Drive, Cave Creek, AZ

Helping Hands: How YOU Can Make a Difference

You don’t have to be a grown-up to make the world a better place. In fact, some of the biggest changes start with kids just like you! Whether it’s helping a neighbor, protecting the planet, or supporting a cause you care about, there are so many ways to pitch in.

Care for the Planet

• Pick up litter in your neighborhood or local park (with gloves and an adult).

• Recycle cans, bottles, and paper at home and school.

• Plant flowers, trees, or a garden to help bees and other pollinators.

Spread Kindness

• Write a thank-you note to your teacher, bus driver, or a community helper.

• Make cheerful cards for people in hospitals or nursing homes.

• Compliment someone — it might make their whole day!

Help Animals

• Collect blankets, toys, or food for your local animal shelter.

• Volunteer (with an adult) at an adoption event.

• Spread the word about pets looking for homes.

Support

Those in Need

• Organize a canned food or clothing drive at school.

• Help cook a meal for a neighbor or family in need.

• Donate part of your allowance to a charity you believe in.

Start Small, Dream Big

Even small actions can inspire others. One smile, one kind act, or one good idea can grow into something amazing.

Look around your school, your street, or your town — there’s always a way to lend a helping hand.

School Homework Hacks: Make It Faster, Easier, and (Almost) Fun

Homework isn’t always everyone’s favorite part of the day—but it doesn’t have to feel like a never-ending chore. With a few smart tricks, you can finish it faster, understand it better, and still have time for fun. Try these homework hacks and see what works best for you!

1. Create a Homework Zone

Find a spot that’s just for homework. It could be a desk in your room, the kitchen table, or a quiet corner of the living room. Keep it stocked with pencils, erasers, paper, and anything else you need so you don’t waste time hunting for supplies. Bonus tip: pick a chair that’s comfy but not so cozy that you want to nap!

2. Use the “10-Minute Warm-Up”

Before you dive into the hardest assignment, start with something quick and easy. It could be a short worksheet or reading a few pages. Getting one small win early makes you feel more confident and ready to tackle the tricky stu .

3. Break It Into Chunks

Big projects can feel overwhelming. Instead of doing everything at once, break it into smaller steps. For example: Step 1: Read the directions Step 2: Do five math problems

Step 3: Take a quick break

It’s like eating a pizza one slice at a time—you’ll finish it without even realizing it!

4. Set a Timer

Try the “Pomodoro Technique” (fancy name, simple idea). Work for 20 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. Repeat until you’re done. Knowing there’s a break coming makes it easier to stay focused.

5. Make It a Game

• Turn homework into a challenge:

• Race the clock to finish before the timer goes o

• Give yourself points for each task you finish

• Challenge a sibling or friend to a “study sprint”

The more you gamify homework, the less it feels like, well, homework.

6. Ask for Help Early

If you’re stuck, don’t wait until you’re frustrated. Ask a parent, teacher, or even a classmate for help. Sometimes, just hearing the directions in a di erent way can make everything click.

7. Reward Yourself

Give yourself something to look forward to once you finish. Maybe it’s a snack, extra time outside, or your favorite show. Rewards make your brain happy and help you stay motivated.

8. Stay Organized

Keep a planner or calendar where you write down all your assignments. Cross them o as you finish—there’s something super satisfying about that. Plus, you won’t forget about that science project until the night before it’s due.

9. Put Away Distractions

Homework takes twice as long if you’re also watching videos or texting friends. Put your phone in another room and turn o the TV. You’ll be amazed at how much faster you finish.

10. End with a Victory Lap

When you’re done, check over your work for mistakes. It’s like polishing a trophy—you’ve done the hard part, now make sure it shines.

With these homework hacks, you might just find that schoolwork isn’t so bad after all. And who knows? You might even have time left over to play, relax, and enjoy the rest of your afternoon— no pencil required.

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HOW IT WORKS

After-School Clubs & Hobbies: How to Find Your Perfect Fit

By Epic Kids Sta

The school day might end at 3 o’clock, but your learning — and your fun — can keep going long after the final bell. After-school clubs and hobbies aren’t just about filling time; they’re a chance to explore your interests, make new friends, and discover talents you didn’t even know you had.

Step 1: Think About What Makes You Smile

Start by asking yourself: what do I enjoy doing in my free time? Do you love moving around? You might enjoy sports teams, dance classes, or martial arts. Prefer quiet and creativity? Art club, creative writing, or the school newspaper could be perfect. Love problem-solving? Try chess club, robotics, or coding.

Step 2: Try Something New

Don’t limit yourself to what you already know. Maybe you’ve never played an instrument before — join band and give it a try! You might discover a hidden talent or meet friends who inspire you.

Step 3: Check Your Schedule

Some clubs meet once a week; others might have games or events on weekends. Make sure the commitment fits

your family’s schedule so you can enjoy it without feeling stressed.

Step 4: Ask Around

Talk to classmates, teachers, or your school counselor to learn about all your options. Sometimes the most fun activities aren’t advertised in big posters — you might hear about them from a friend who’s already involved.

Epic Ideas to Get You

Started:

• Sports: Soccer, basketball, swim team, gymnastics

• Arts: Theater, photography, choir, painting

• STEM: Coding, robotics, science club, mathletes

• Service: Student council, environmental club, community service projects

• Just for Fun: Chess club, cooking class, gardening, debate team

No matter which path you choose, remember this: after-school activities are about enjoying yourself, building confidence, and discovering new parts of who you are. So jump in — your next big adventure might start right after the bell rings!

How to Make (More) Friends This School Year School

School’s been back for a couple of weeks now—enough time to learn your new schedule, figure out where the bathroom is, and maybe even meet a few classmates. But whether you already have a group of friends or you’re still looking for “your people,” it’s never too late to make new connections. Here are some easy, friendly ways to grow your circle this year.

1. Say “Hi” First

It sounds simple, but being the one to smile and say “Hi” can make someone’s day. A friendly greeting shows you’re open to talking, whether you’ve met before or not.

2. Find Common Ground

Listen for hints about what people like—maybe they mention a video game you play, a book you’ve read, or a sport you enjoy. Shared

interests are a perfect starting point for conversation.

3. Join In

If you see a group playing a game at recess or working on a project, ask if you can join. Most people are happy to have more players or helpers. Even if you don’t know everyone yet, you’ll be part of the fun.

4. Share Something

It could be an extra pencil, a snack (if allowed), or even just a funny story. Small acts of kindness help people feel comfortable around you and show you’re a thoughtful friend.

5. Be Curious

Ask questions about the other person—like what they’re reading, what they do after school, or if they’ve ever been to a certain place. People love to share about

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themselves, and it helps you learn more about each other.

6. Be a Connector

Introduce your friends to each other! If you know two people who would get along, bring them together. You’ll not only help them make a new friend, but you’ll also grow your group.

7. Be Patient

Friendships don’t always happen instantly. Sometimes it takes a few conversations, a couple of shared laughs, and some time together before you feel close. Keep being friendly and showing up—people notice.

8. Include Others

If you already have a group of friends, look for kids who might be sitting alone at lunch or playing by themselves. Inviting them to join

can make their day (and you might discover someone awesome you didn’t know before).

9. Be Yourself

It’s tempting to act a certain way just to fit in, but the best friendships happen when people like you for you. Share your real interests, your real jokes, and your real self.

10. Remember Names

Calling someone by their name makes them feel important and shows you’re paying attention. If you forget, it’s okay—just politely ask again.

Friendship isn’t about how many people you know—it’s about the quality of the connections you make. Keep an open mind, be kind, and you’ll find that your circle might just get bigger (and more fun!) as the year goes on.

Cover story

Meet Our Eco Heroes!

Big change starts with small actions — and these students are proving it! From protecting wildlife to reducing waste to creating earth-friendly inventions, Brandon & Adriel, Prisha, and Amaira are making a di erence right here in Arizona. Their ideas are smart, their passion is inspiring, and their actions show that anyone — no matter their age — can help protect our planet. Get ready to be inspired, and maybe even spark your own Eco Hero journey!

How YOU Can Be an Eco Hero! Small actions can make a BIG difference for our planet.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

• Use both sides of paper before recycling.

• Reuse jars, boxes, or bags instead of throwing them away.

• Sort recyclables at home and school.

Save Energy

• Turn o lights when you leave a room.

• Unplug chargers when they’re not in use.

• Let the sunshine light your room instead of flipping on the switch.

Protect Water

• Turn o the tap while brushing your teeth.

• Take shorter showers.

• Refill a reusable water bottle instead of buying plastic ones. Walk, Bike, or Carpool

• Ride your bike or walk when you can.

• Share rides with friends or family to save fuel.

Care for Nature

• Plant flowers, trees, or a veggie garden.

• Leave parks, trails, and beaches cleaner than you found them.

• Feed birds or make a beefriendly garden.

Eco Hero Challenge

Pick ONE thing from this list to start doing today. Once it becomes a habit, add another. Before you know it, you’ll be a true Eco Hero — just like the ones in this story!

Prisha Shroff:

The Arizona Teen Using Science to Fight Wildfires

Chandler student Prisha Shro was driving home from Los Angeles when her life—and her scientific direction—changed in a single moment. As smoke billowed and flames swept across the landscape around her, her family was forced to turn back. Their friends evacuated their homes. It was the August Complex Fire—the biggest wildfire in California’s history. It lasted 86 days, burned over 1 million acres of land, and destroyed hundreds of homes in 2020.

“It was destroying everything in its path,” Prisha later recalled. “We saw the devastating impacts on people’s lives and health.” That scary experience made Prisha want to help. She decided to use science and technology to find a way to stop wildfires before they get out of control.

A Big Idea with a Big Goal

By the time she was 14, Prisha had invented something amazing: the Wildfire Prevention, Detection, and Suppression System—or WPDSS for short. It uses real-time data from satellites in space to watch for areas where wildfires might start. Her system checks things like temperature, wind, soil moisture, and even how dry the plants are. If it sees something potentially dangerous, it sends out a warning to local fire agencies, just like a

weather alert. Someday, Prisha hopes it will even control drones that can fly out and drop firestopping materials to stop the fire before a blaze spreads.

Her system is incredibly advanced—it can pinpoint “hotspots” and detect active fires with almost 99% accuracy!

Winning Awards and Making a Di erence

Prisha’s innovation didn’t go unnoticed. She has earned multiple honors, including:

• The Lemelson Award for Invention, with a $10,000 prize

• A spot in the Broadcom MASTERS national science competition

• Recognition as one of Arizona’s “18 Under 18”

• The Prudential Emerging Visionary Award for creating real change in her community

But more than the awards, Prisha is proud that her work could help keep people safe.

Another Smart Invention

Prisha didn’t stop there. She also created a self-cleaning solar panel to help people in Arizona get clean energy more easily. Normally, solar panels get dusty in the desert, which makes them less powerful. Her design cleans them without using any water—saving both energy and resources.

Helping Other Kids Become Changemakers

Now 18, Prisha has started a

group called Sustainability Stars, where she helps other students work on important science projects. She teaches kids how to take on big problems like climate change, clean water, and food safety. So far, she’s taught over 1,000 students and reached thousands more with her message: you can make a di erence.

Prisha’s Message to You

Prisha says her motto is: “Be curious, dream big, and never give up. You don’t have to change the whole world—but you can change someone’s whole world.”

Her story shows that other kids can do amazing things when they care about others, ask big questions, and take action. She’s living proof that you’re never too young to spark real change.

The

Amaira Srivastava:

Teen Who Invented an Edible Cup to Save

the Planet

At just 14 years old, Amaira Srivastava is proving that big change can come in small, biodegradable packages.

This Scottsdale ninthgrader made national headlines after being named a finalist in the prestigious 3M Young Scientist Challenge— and for good reason. Amaira created a biodegradable, edible cup made from fruit peels, natural binders, and nutritious ingredients. Her invention is designed to replace plastic cups and reduce the growing issue of single-use waste, especially in schools.

The idea came to her while observing just how much plastic waste students created during lunch. Rather than just complain about it, Amaira decided to do something. She spent months testing formulas using fruit peels like banana and orange, which are typically thrown away. Her final product? A sturdy, nutrient-packed cup that holds liquid, breaks down naturally, and can even be eaten!

Amaira is now working closely with a mentor from 3M to refine her design and prepare for the final round of the competition. But her goals go beyond winning—she hopes to bring her cups to school cafeterias and eventually make them available for commercial use.

Outside of the lab, Amaira is an avid environmentalist and student leader. She’s passionate about sustainability and wants to inspire other kids to think creatively about how they can help the planet.

“I want kids to know that you don’t have to be a grown-up to make a di erence,” she says. “You just have to care—and be willing to try.”

We care, Amaira. And we’re cheering you on.

Clean Water, Big Ideas:

Yuma Eighth-Graders Build Microplastic-Removing Robot

While most eighth-graders are busy navigating middle school life, Brandon Miranda and Adriel Magana are navigating something much bigger: how to clean our planet’s water—one microplastic at a time. These two students from Harvest Preparatory Academy have designed and built a robot that filters microplastics from wastewater, tackling one of the world’s most urgent environmental issues with a mix of creativity, coding, and pure determination.

Their journey began as part of a partnership with Arizona State University’s SCience and ENgineering Experience (SCENE), which introduces underrepresented students to hands-on science projects. With guidance from ASU mentors, Brandon and Adriel spent months learning about microplastic pollution and how even the tiniest plastic particles can damage ecosystems and enter our food and water. Their solution? A compact, wheeled robot with a built-in filtration system that can float on water and scoop out tiny plastic particles. The robot uses sensors to detect debris and steer itself, making it both ecofriendly and autonomous. It’s like a mini Roomba—only for ponds and rivers.

In April 2025, the boys presented their invention at a community showcase in Yuma. Surrounded by fellow students, teachers, and local o icials, they explained how their robot could help reduce pollution in Arizona’s waterways—and eventually, even on a global scale.

“Our dream is to make something that can help real communities,” Adriel said. “Even small actions can have big impact.”

Brandon added, “We want to show other kids that science isn’t just in textbooks. You can use it to actually solve problems.”

The team’s project was so impressive that it’s now being considered for future field testing with local water conservation groups. Their ASU mentors praised not just the technology, but the boys’ teamwork, curiosity, and leadership.

“This is exactly the kind of student innovation that gives us hope,” one mentor shared. “They’re young, but they’re thinking like engineers—and leaders.”

What’s Next?

•Further development and testing of their prototype

•Presentations at local STEM events and science fairs

•Inspiring younger students at Harvest Prep to pursue environmental engineering

With brains, heart, and a commitment to clean water, Brandon and Adriel are proving that even middle schoolers can take on massive problems—and build solutions that float.

This future eco-entrepreneur is already making waves — and saving the planet one cup at a time.

Brandon Miranda (left) and Adriel Magana proudly present their microplastic-cleaning robot.

JUNIOR REPORTERS

Love to write? Ask questions? Tell stories? Epic Kids wants YOU on our Junior Reporter team!

JUNIOR REPORTERS!

JUNIOR REPORTERS

Love to write? Ask questions? Tell stories? Epic Kids wants YOU on our Junior Reporter team!

Possible assignments include:

Love to write? Ask questions? Tell stories? Epic Kids wants YOU on our Junior Reporter team!

Possible assignments include:

Restaurant reviews (bonus: dessert pics!)

Love to write? Ask questions? Tell stories? Epic Kids wants YOU on our Junior Reporter team!

• Restaurant reviews (bonus: dessert pics!)

Restaurant reviews (bonus: dessert pics!)

Movie or game reviews

Restaurant reviews (bonus: dessert pics!)

Possible assignments include:

• Movie or game reviews

Movie or game reviews

Interviews with local heroes

Possible assignments include:

Restaurant reviews (bonus: dessert pics!)

• Interviews with local heroes

Interviews with local heroes