WEST CHESTER, PA — Last week, the spirit of scientific inquiry was alive and buzzing as over 380 young scientists from across Chester County gathered at West Chester University’s Student Recreation Center. The occasion? The 2024 Chester County Science Research Competition (CCSRC), a two-day event aimed at encouraging students’ passion for science and fostering their research skills.
The competition, which took place on March 12 and 13, saw participation from 53 schools, with students presenting their research across a wide range of categories, including botany, chemistry, earth and space, and zoology.
Organized by the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU), the CCSRC is split into two parts: the Dr. Lucy Balian Rorke-Adams Fair, catering to students in grades 6-12, and the Dr. Jonas Salk Fair for younger participants in grades 4-5. The event is generously sponsored by CCRES, AGC Chemicals, the Children’s Fund of Chester County, and Phillips Mushroom Farms.
A total of 115 volunteer judges, drawn from diverse professional backgrounds, presided over the fairs. The judges had the opportunity to preview the student projects before interviewing the eager young researchers about their work. Following these interviews, the judges deliberated to determine the winners in each category while providing valuable feedback to all participants.
Jay Erb, a volunteer judge at the CCSRC, applauded the event’s ability to push students beyond their comfort zones. “They learn to express categorically the information that they have learned,” he said, emphasizing the importance of clearly communicating scientific findings.
Karin Brian, another volunteer judge, underscored the competition’s role in inspiring students to consider careers in science, technology, engineering, and math fields. “They get to see real-world applications and engage with people who think like them,” she said.
Both the Rorke-Adams and Salk Fairs culminated in an evening open house, where families had the chance to marvel at the array of projects on display. During the Salk open house, students who placed in each of the 15 categories were recognized in front of their proud families and friends.
Out of the 183 projects entered into the Rorke-Adams Fair, 123 met the judges’ criteria for a winning project. These winners will be honored at the Rorke-Adams Award Ceremony on March 19, 2024. Furthermore, high school students who secured first, second, or third place and middle school students who won first or second place will advance to the Delaware Valley Science Fairs in early April.
The Chester County Science Research Competition is more than just a contest; it’s an opportunity for young minds to explore the wonders of science, engage with professionals in their field of interest, and gain valuable experience in conducting and presenting research. It’s clear that the future of science is bright in Chester County.
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