Edition 11

Feb 2026

Every year, something powerful happens at MSEF.

Students who once stood nervously beside their own poster boards return, years later, as judges. They come back not just with advanced degrees and impressive careers, but with gratitude.

Science fair wasn't just a project for them. It helped shape their trajectory.

One alum, now an MD from Harvard Medical School, shared:

“As a child, I participated in science fairs which significantly altered my life trajectory. That’s why I want to give back and volunteer!”

For many, the connection is deeply personal:

“I participated in the Worcester Regional Fair and State Fair for three years. The engineering skills I developed through science fair directly shaped my path at WPI… I’m grateful for the role science fair played in my journey and am excited to return as a judge to encourage the next generation.”

Their paths looked different — some competed at regionals, others advanced to the state fair, and a few reached the global stage at ISEF. 

Today, they are physicians, engineers, epidemiologists, biotech leaders, and educators working to ensure equitable access to STEM.

This is the full-circle impact of science fair.

Students grow into scientists.

Scientists return as mentors.

Mentors inspire the next generation.

It’s not just a competition — it’s a lifelong community.

The first regional fair is just 1 week away! To learn more about being a science and engineering fair judge go to scifair.com/judge

At MSEF, our support doesn’t stop with project development. Recently, we hosted presentation practice coaching sessions to help students refine how they communicate their research — a critical skill in science and in life.



Volunteer coaches worked with students to strengthen clarity, confidence, and connection to impact. The sessions were energizing, thoughtful, and incredibly well received by both students and volunteers.

A huge thank you to everyone who generously shared their time and expertise!

Moments like this remind us that science fair isn’t just about experimentation, it’s about learning how to share ideas, defend reasoning, and communicate big thinking with confidence.

For the past three years, MSEF has had the privilege of supporting Teacher Gian Paola Grant as she has steadily built and strengthened the science fair program at Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School in Methuen. Her commitment to guiding students through authentic, independent research is transforming what’s possible in her classroom.

This year’s fair was a powerful reflection of that work.



We were delighted to attend and to welcome Senator Pavel Payano, who joined us in celebrating the students and seeing firsthand the impact of sustained investment in STEM education.

The students were poised, thoughtful, and deeply engaged. Their projects demonstrated strong chemistry knowledge and genuine curiosity — exploring everything from ice cream and color to evaporation and real-world applications of scientific principles.



It was an inspiring day made possible by an extraordinary educator, a supportive school and a remarkable community of young scientists.

We are excited to honor outstanding educators who partner with us to champion independent student STEM learning.

This year, we’re expanding recognition with three award categories.

Student Support

Celebrating educators who help every student see themselves as a capable scientist or engineer.

Learning Connections

Honoring educators who connect students with resources, expertise, and real‑world STEM experiences.

Program Leadership

Recognizing educators who build, sustain, and grow strong science fair programs.

If you would like to nominate a teacher you can do so here.

Because of the generosity and commitment of the following organizations, MSEF can support educators and students across Massachusetts year-round. Their partnership makes it possible for thousands of middle and high school students to engage in authentic, independent scientific research.

Massachusetts Science & Engineering Fair is more than a competition. It is a year-long, inquiry-driven learning experience that strengthens critical thinking, creativity, resilience, and confidence.

Through classroom-integrated programming and our statewide fair progression, students design, conduct, and present independent research projects spanning life sciences, engineering, computer science, environmental science, and health-related fields. This work, and the opportunities it creates, are powered by the organizations below. 

Thank you, we couldn’t do this work without you!

We are always seeking additional sponsors for our Getting Science Fair Ready programming and Fair events. If you work for an organization that cares about STEM education please get in touch!

Sponsorship Brochure

Science fair is powerful because of people like you — students, educators, judges, alumni, and supporters who believe in what’s possible.

Thank you for helping create a community where students grow into scientists, and scientists come back to lift the next generation.

With gratitude,

Sarah

Sarah Thomas

Development Manager

sthomas@scifair.com

Why did the scientist take out his doorbell?



He wanted to win the No-bel prize!

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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. EIN (04-2707499)