Science fairs are not only a great learning experience, they can help students start thinking about future careers. Educators and parents are key supporters.
While teachers will be available to advise students, the initiative and responsibility belongs to the student. Plagiarism, scientific fraud, and misconduct are not condoned at any level of competition. Projects that are fraudulent or are plagiarized will fail to qualify for competition in local fairs and in the the regional fair.
Every educator and parent involved in the Regional Science Fair should assume the following responsibilities:
- Serve as an advisor to the students
- Recognize the importance of active student involvement
- Be available when needed
- Respect the student's ideas and intelligence
- Encourage students to follow up on their ideas
- Be generous with praise and enthusiasm
- Contact interested scientists or professionals for special equipment or resources as needed
- See that student projects follow guidelines and are submitted at time
Each school should contact parents as early as possible telling them of the Science Fair and explaining how they can help.
Some ways that parents can help their children have a great science fair experience:
- Resource Person: provide expertise on the topic, help find resource information, or provide contact with experts
- Supplies: furnish or locate needed equipment
- Transportation: take students to library, to meet with resource people, or to gather supplies
- Place: provide a garage, plant nursery, or laboratory
- If your student advances to the regional fair, help them complete their individual registration.
NOTE: Participation in the regional science fair is determined by the school district.
If you are not sure if your student is in a school or district that is participating in the regional fair, please contact the science fair coordinator to determine district or school registration. Private school districts fall under the same guidelines as public school districts. Home schools are encouraged to participate.