Get ready to launch!

This summer, we've been simplifying the process to participate in science fair to help you and your students focus on the core science and engineering experience, while keeping everyone safe and science fair ready.

This newsletter highlights some of the new and updated materials that are now available!

But first... Before we close the books on the 2024 Fair Season, please tell us about your experience. Fill out this short survey now.

Planning: Tools to use in your classroom

Thanks to feedback from the 2024 Teacher Advisory Group, we've made updates to website layout at www.scifair.com to make it easier to navigate for teachers and students. Most documents can be downloaded or copied to your drive for sharing with students.

• The Science Fair Ready pages at www.scifair.com/science-fair-ready include templates, tools, and a library of resources.
• The student page is designed specifically for students with videos, podcasts, templates for planning, and links for background research.
• The educator page includes guides for different parts of the process and an updated FAQ.
• The Fairs pages at www.scifair.com/fairs walks through the steps to participate in the event from submitting paperwork to judging.
• The Resources page at www.scifair.com/resources is now labeled with essential documents, supporting documents, and those that are a bonus!

Middle School FAQs goes over the who, what, where, and when to participate.

The new Middle School Manual has a new reader-friendly layout and icons.

High School Checklist has been updated and simplified.

In the new High School Manual check out the cover for a list of updates.

Remember: The search function can be used in both Manuals so you can find keywords or vocabulary to help you navigate. For example, if a student wants to understand the rules for 'fuel cells' they can search in the body of the document for any reference.

Submissions: Website and Paperwork Packets

• All projects when ready for submission should go through the Statewide Review site according to grade below.
• Paperwork and permissions are bundled into one packet for Middle School for all projects and one primary packet for High School that will cover most projects without additional restrictions.
• Updated zFairs tutorials will be available later this month.
• Attention Large Programs: Schools with a large number of projects (20+) should contact MSEF to streamline the process and deadlines.

Coming later in August

• User tutorials for zFairs - uploading paperwork, submitting for review, etc.
• Further updates to www.scifair.com and available resources
• Updated Project Components guide with recommendations and exemplars
• Updated Middle School judging rubric
• "This is Science Fair" student recruitment videos

New Classroom Poster

Download this PDF and print as a 16x20 classroom poster for your wall.

The poster walks through the steps to participate, the required components, and info about websites and handbooks. 

Reach out for info on how to receive a pre-printed copy from MSEF.

Find student recruitment flyers here:

• High School
• Middle School

Rebekah Stendahl

Program Director

rstendahl@scifair.com

Book with me

Advancing science and engineering literacy since 1949, the Massachusetts Science & Engineering Fair (MSEF) was founded by the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, MIT professors, and a group of pioneering K-12 science educators. 

MSEF is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.