High School

Teacher Newsletter

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We're ready when you're ready

 

The updates for the 2025 Science Fair season are now available.


This includes

  • Updated Manual and Science Fair Ready Checklist
  • Reorganization of www.scifair.com
  • Access to MAHS.zfairs.com with project submission instructions
  • New opportunities to receive support for you and your students


But first...

MSEF Student Symposium: Sept 14 @ MIT


Encourage recent and current science fair students to sign up for this student focused event on Saturday, September 14th at MIT. Students will hear from professionals, network with each other, and learn about resources and academic connections to inspire current science fair projects and/or future dreams. Students in grades 9-12 are eligible to attend this free event.


Registration and information HERE. Pre-registration is required.

 

It's a new Science Fair year. Where do you start?


Whether you are new to Science Fair or have been involved for awhile, we suggest starting at www.scifair.com/science-fair-ready. This section will provide you with links about the steps of leading student projects including resources and best practices.


You can also use and adapt this student planning template. Download or make a copy to your drive. The template includes

  • sections for students to reflect on each stage of the project,
  • prompts to encourage critical thinking,
  • and the opportunity for mentor, teacher, or peer feedback.

 

At www.scifair.com/fairs you can find the overview of the steps you and your students will need to follow to participate in the regional and/or state fairs like deadlines and paperwork.


Reach out to info@scifair.com anytime for help. We can also help to connect you to your regional fair committee.

 

Think Tank Playbook

This slide deck was created in partnership with Acera EI. It covers an 8-step process to help students ideate, research, and create a plan of action for their project.


Think Tank Playbook

The High School Checklist has been updated and simplified.


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

NEW High School Checklist
NEW High School Manual

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 High School projects when ready for submission should go through the Statewide Review at MAHS.zfairs.com
  • Paperwork and permissions are bundled into one primary packet for High School that will cover most projects without additional restrictions. See blue box below for more details.


  • Attention Large Programs: Schools with a large number of projects (20+) should contact MSEF to streamline the process and deadlines.
zFairs tutorial with chapters
  • 0:45 Pathway to Participation
  • 5:09 Paperwork Overview
  • 11:04 Teacher Account creation
  • 15:35 Student Account creation
  • 23:09 Paperwork Uploads
  • 27:58 Teacher Review and 'Mark Ready'


Paperwork Packets

We are excited to launch combined permission and paperwork packets. All Middle School projects and most High School projects will only need one upload with these packets.

  • Download in zFairs, scifair.com, or in this newsletter. Note: Do not open as a Google Doc.
  • They can be filled out electronically or by hand.
  • Signatures can be by hand or electronic.
  • High School projects in restricted areas may require additional single forms on their zFairs dashboard
  • Instructions for downloading and uploading will be found at the MAHS.zfairs.com
MAHS Paperwork Packet

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 in the mail.


Find a High School student recruitment flyer here. Use or adapt this flyer to encourage students to get involved in science fair.

Stay informed:


Join the Science Fair Ready Network to stay up to date on information and opportunities. Sign up here and/or join our teacher-only Facebook group.


You can book an appt with me to plan for the year.

If you would like to create a student test account in zFairs to familiarize yourself with the process, let us know.


I am so excited for this year!

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.

Massachusetts Science + Engineering Fair | scifair.com

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