Welcome to the official site of the 32nd Annual Chester Science Fair!

First Saturday in March
by Anita M. Kurisko
 
‘Twas a week before the Science Fair and all through the house
Not a project was finished; I was beginning to grouse.
The children were sprawled out upstairs on their beds
While tables of test data danced in their heads.
Their Scientific Method notes and guides to judges’ scores,
Their labbooks and pencils were all scattered on floors.
And down in the office, there’s another huge sprawl:
Colorful printouts and posters are spread wall to wall.
The computer has a virus, the printer’s out of ink…
I take a deep breath.  ”I need some perspective”, I think.
Childrens’ science projects shouldn’t be viewed as a chore.
A science fair project teaches them quite a bit more.
They get better at science- at figuring things out.
They pick out fun topics to learn something about.
They challenge assumptions; they ask questions “Why?”
They learn to take data, and learn not to be shy.
They ask “Why does it do that?” and “What is the cause?”
“Which experiments work great?” and “Which ones have flaws?”
They learn Excel and some PowerPoint and they pick them up fast.
In fact, this year’s data analysis went smoother than last.
They learn to use cameras to document their work;
To work with partners as a team, and to not act like a jerk.
It’s all good experience: taking data, presenting results,
And defending their conclusions to interested adults.
Each year that they do it, they pull it together.
They present a solid project and hope for good weather.
The Fair is worth the time and effort, but I confess
That science and creativity often involve mess.
So three cheers for the Science Fair, and for scientific ambition!
It’s great to take part in this Chester Tradition!