About Invent Idaho
Invent Idaho is the premier student invention program in the Northwest, having provided a forum for thousands of young inventors in grades one through eight since its inception in 1989.
Young inventors participate in progressive levels of competitions, including three regional events held across Idaho, culminating in an Invent Idaho State Finals event.
Not only does the Invent Idaho program teach higher order thinking skills, but it also addresses dozens of State Science Standards, as well as the number one Technology and Communication Standard, Creativity and Innovation: to demonstrate creative thinking, construct knowledge, and use information and communication technologies to develop innovative products and processes.
Invent Idaho encourages American innovation. As one young inventor stated, “I like being creative and Invent Idaho was a great way for me to express my ideas and show other people what I was thinking. I like the Jules Verne category because you can be really crazy and dream big. I hope one day one of my inventions can actually be made and help in some way.” As one long-time Invent Idaho parent stated, “Invent Idaho has been a wonderful creative outlet for my kids. It has taught them critical thinking skills and problem-solving skills. They would be creatively engaged for hours while trying to get their ideas on paper and making models. What a great way to combine science, math, research, development, marketing, writing, and model making into an exciting learning experience.”
Invent Idaho is seeking a partnership with schools and independent participants that share our passion for creative, proven educational opportunities and who recognize the significance of developing the innovative spirit in America’s youth.
Invent Idaho Benefits:
- Addresses STEM goals for 21st Century skills
- Meets State Standards In Science, Technology and Engineering
- Promotes higher order thinking
- Develops problem solving skills
- Encourages creativity
- Enables authentic learning
- Is truly cross-curricular
Founder & Executive Director
Invention education is fundamental to our country’s future. Creative problem solving is a life skill, one that will sustain students in any career that they choose.
Our Team
Shelley Pressley, Ph.D
Idaho State Coordinator
North Idaho Regional Coordinator inventidaho@gmail.com
Southeast Idaho Regional Coordinator ccasselman@gracepocatello.org
Our Why
Each year, we are pleasantly reminded by parents and teachers about the positive impact that this program provides for Idaho youth. These students get to pursue ideation of solutions to real-world societal problems and let their ideas be heard!
The program enables them to compete using their ideas at progressing levels, including the potential to compete at the National Invention Convention at The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, MI.
Most importantly, the program enables students of all ages and abilities to develop their STEM identity through practicing communication and self-advocacy of their ideas. We believe the program is truly life-changing to many of the participants each year and are honored to continue to promote this program throughout the state of Idaho!