Several fifth-grade classes held the first Invention Convention in Zephyr Elementary's cafeteria May 14.

"This goes with the Story Town series we use, a story called Invention Convention," said teacher Michael Quickel, whose students participated along with those of teachers Laurie Farver, Bethany Feeny, Amy Newman and Melissa Franz. "After we read the story the kids do it."

The students created inventions that would benefit them and then voted on whose invention was their favorite.

The students selected eight semi-finalists – Regina Johnson, Destiny Snyder, Garry Watkins, Estephan Fernandez, Grace Abreu, Kate Bonshak, Hannah Fritzinger and Andy Chung.

The semi-finalists presented their inventions to five special judges – teachers Laurie Farver and Brooke Clary, Superintendent John Corby, Zephyr Principal Terri Miller and Director of Curricilum and Instruction Barbara Chomik.

Destiny Snyder received first place in the competition after the judges' decision. Synder created shoes that lit up, preventing wearers from losing them.

"These are the things that bring learning to life," said Corby. "The imagination, the creativity, we are proud and aware."