Westfield High School students showcase innovation & entrepreneurial thinking

Submitted by Westfield Washington Schools

Westfield High School (WHS) students demonstrated creativity, collaboration, and entrepreneurial thinking during the 2026 WHS Innovation Competition, a multi-round experience in which students transform ideas into real-world solutions.

What began six years ago with just three student teams has grown into one of the district’s signature Life Ready learning experiences. This year, more than 83 student teams participated in the competition, developing products, services, and business ideas while building skills in communication, leadership, problem-solving, and innovation.

During the April 23 Innovation Competition Luncheon, hosted by the Westfield Chamber of Commerce, students presented their ideas to community and business leaders as part of the second round of competition. VitaFlex+ was named the luncheon winner and received $1,300 to invest back into its innovation.

The top five teams advancing to the final round included:

• VitaFlex+
• Pocket Polish
• Templ
• cleanoutcashin
• NeoBait

The competition concluded May 12 with the final round at WHS, where students pitched their ideas before judges and community partners.

Congratulations to the following student teams for earning top honors:

• VitaFlex+, by Liv Bates and Samantha Foster: $8,800 awarded throughout the competition
• Templ, by John Bunch and Nick McKeown: $1,300 awarded
• CleanOut & CashIn, by Adrian Feltrinelli: $1,200 awarded

“Watching the growth of this program, and more importantly, the growth of our students, has been incredible,” said WHS Business teacher John Moore in a Linkedin post. “[We’re] proud of every student who stepped outside their comfort zone, took a risk, and shared an idea. The future is in good hands!”

Mayor Scott Willis addressed students during the event, sharing encouragement about the role students will play in shaping the future of the Westfield community. Attendees also heard from Westfield Middle School Project Lead the Way (PLTW) teacher Jeff Crist and seventh-grade student Will Sevick, who highlighted the importance of innovation and problem-solving at every age. Read more about their 3-D printed prosthetic project here.

The district thanks the many sponsors, judges, and partners whose continued support helps make the program possible, including:

• Elements Financial
• Indiana Members Credit Union
• Skender
• Gaylor Electric
• Homes with Laura
• Beau Benjamin Realty Group
• Butler University Lacy School of Business
• City of Westfield
• Community First Bank of Indiana
• EdgeRock Development

The WHS Innovation Competition continues to demonstrate what is possible when schools, businesses, and the community work together to invest in student excellence and create meaningful Life Ready learning experiences.