Oak Ridge Schools Shine at National Technology Student Association Conference
At the recent Technology Student Association (TSA) National Conference held in Nashville from June 27 to July 1, Oak Ridge Schools made a significant impact by earning national recognition. The event showcased the talents of students and educators from across the country, with Oak Ridge participants standing out in various competitions and receiving prestigious awards.
One of the highlights of the conference was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Todd Livesay, an Advanced STEM teacher at Oak Ridge High School. This award honors his outstanding dedication and service to students and families throughout his distinguished career in TSA education. According to a news release from Oak Ridge Schools, Livesay has built an impressive legacy of competitive excellence, guiding countless students to first and second place honors at state and national TSA competitions during his tenure.
Livesay’s success is attributed to his deep understanding of what it takes to build a solid program—combining talented and committed students with community partners, thorough preparation, and a winner’s mindset. His contributions have had a lasting impact on the TSA program in Oak Ridge.
Holly Cross, the city school system’s supervisor of college career and technical education, praised Livesay for his commitment to students that goes beyond the classroom. She highlighted his ability to inspire young people to achieve their best, calling him an exemplar of TSA education.
The award was presented at the national competition by Odelia Kneiser, a 2025 graduate of Oak Ridge High School and the school system’s national officer for TSA. Kneiser completed her term as national secretary of TSA at the event, adding a personal touch to the recognition.
Oak Ridge Students Excel in Multiple Competitions
Oak Ridge students competed in 16 events among 9,500 middle and high school competitors nationwide. Their achievements reflect the high standards and comprehensive preparation that define the Oak Ridge Schools’ TSA program. Here are some of the top finishers:
Construction Challenge 1st Place Winners:
- Avery Fischer
- Ellie McKee
- Lilah Chittenden
- Susanna Naeve (Robertsville Middle)
CAD Engineering 2nd Place Winner:
- Henry Landau (Oak Ridge High)
CAD Foundations Finalists:
- Avery Fischer
- Grant Kolpack (Robertsville Middle)
Gold Achievement Award:
- Toby Chen
- Colton Hopson
- Drayton Keehn
- Hailey Moore (Oak Ridge High)
Music Production 9th Place Winner:
- Simon Weston (Oak Ridge High)
Off-the-Grid Semifinalists:
- Ellie McKee
- Lilah Chittenden
- Tavi Blanco (Robertsville Middle)
Tech Bowl Finalists:
- Eliam Hermann
- Grant Kolpack
- A.J. Eldridge (Robertsville Middle)
STEM Animation Finalists:
- Grant Kolpack
- Thomas White
- Adaiah Carmon (Robertsville Middle)
Web Design Finalists:
- Grant Kolpack
- Eliam Hermann
- Tavi Blanco (Robertsville Middle)
These accomplishments highlight the strong emphasis on both technical skills and soft skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and confidence. Sandra Burnette, the RMS TSA sponsor, expressed her pride in the students’ achievements. She noted that the approach taken by the TSA program not only develops technical expertise but also prepares students to compete at the highest levels.
The success of Oak Ridge Schools at the National TSA Conference underscores the dedication of its educators and the commitment of its students to excellence in technology and innovation. The program continues to set a benchmark for other schools across the country.
