Dothan, Ala. (WDNews) — Dothan City Schools is celebrating a major academic milestone after Dothan High School senior Alexis Saffold earned an automatic bid to the International Science and Engineering Fair, one of the world’s largest science competitions.
School officials said Saffold secured her spot during last Friday’s Greater East Alabama Regional Science and Engineering Fair in Montgomery. By earning the bid there, she advanced past the state-level qualification process.
In May, Saffold is set to travel to Arizona for the weeklong competition with all expenses covered. She will compete against finalists from across the United States and more than 65 countries. According to Dothan City Schools, participants will compete for nearly $9 million in scholarships and prizes.
Her latest achievement follows a strong showing earlier this year at the 2026 ACOM Science Fair in January, where she took first place in the Physics, Astronomy and Mathematics division. Her project was titled “Using Arduino Pressure and Accelerometer Sensor Data to Determine the Least Painful Backpack Strap Position.”
Dothan City Schools said Saffold’s selection marks a first for the Wiregrass region, making her the area’s first ISEF finalist in the competition’s 75-year history.
District leaders said the accomplishment reflects Saffold’s hard work, dedication and talent, while also highlighting the academic opportunities available to students in Dothan City Schools.
The school system is encouraging the community to celebrate Saffold’s achievement and support her as she prepares to represent the Wiregrass on the international stage.
