Plot: Students from rival schools competing for a national science prize discover Chromium 6 in the local water supply, uncover a plot by a so-called philanthropist and bring active awareness to their town.
Issues: Toxic water in a small town; corporate compliance, scientific testing.
Special Elements: Students did research on toxic residue in urban and rural setting, then worked with professional activist from Heal the Bay, a Los Angeles organization dedicated to exposing and correcting L.A. water pollution.