Hometown middle school science team lathers up success with first-of-its-kind sunscreen to protect coral reef

RIVER HILLS, Wis. (CBS 58) -- A group of middle schoolers from University School of Milwaukee took on a challenge and now their efforts are being recognized nationally.

Sam Yuan, Sophie Kouklin, Viraj Kamath, and Ben Raphael took home first place in the National Ocean Sustainability Challenge put on by the seafood restaurant company, Red Lobster. Students from all over the country were asked to develop innovative solutions for protecting or preserving our oceans and waterways.

The students came up with an ocean-friendly sunscreen product called "Ocean Guard" to protect coral reef from becoming extinct.

As part of their winnings, each member gets to visit with leading ocean innovators in Los Angeles.

The school also received $1,000 in science supplies.

The team, supervised by science teacher and robotics coach Nicola De Torre, is currently in the process of getting a permanent patent.

Congrats!