For years now, St. John's students have participated in the annual Science Fair. The challenge is to use sound scientific principles and techniques to test a theory. Students and their parents combine creativity, hard work and inquisitive minds to design the test, build models, gather the data and then present their information in eye-catching and informative displays. They also must explain their experiments to judges. Local winners then compete in regional contests held annually in Mankato, MN. Historically, students from St. John's have done very well in the regional competition. Two years ago, for instance, 11 students won awards at Mankato. Three won first place awards, two won second place, three won third place and three won books awards. In addition, two of the first place winners were named in the top 10 percent of all 5th grade students and were selected to compete in the Discovery Channel's Young Scientist Challenge. This year, 10 St. John's students pictured above won awards at the Regional Science Fair contest in Mankato on May 2. The winners are: Third Grade -- Josh L., blue ribbon, special geology award; Nate C., purple ribbon, 3rd place; Katie B., purple ribbon, 1st place, and Elsie K., blue ribbon, 3rd place. Fourth grade -- Lauren O., purple ribbon, 3rd place; Delanie O., purple ribbon, 2nd place, and Madison L., blue ribbon. Fifth grade -- Sally F., purple ribbon, 2nd place; Cody B., purple ribbon, 2nd place, and Helen P., purple ribbon, book award.

The majority of students who graduate from St. John's continue their educational journeys at Hastings Middle School and, later, Hastings Senior High. They come well-prepared, with the vast majority continually appearing on the "A" and "B" honor rolls. During the 2006-'07 school year, for instance, at least 95 percent of St. John's students were on the "A" honor roll. In addition, a number of St. John's alums over the years have been named valedictorians and salutatorians of their graduation classes. These academic achievements are the products of a strong work ethic and a sound educational background shaped by the dedicated teaching staff at St. John's.