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WESTFIELD – The Science and Engineering Fair at Westfield High School on Jan. 29 features student projects from Westfield High School and Westfield Technical Academy. In past years, many of the students and their projects have gone on to successfully compete at regional, state and international science fairs.
Judges are needed and everyone is welcome to volunteer. The judges always come from many backgrounds. While many have current or past experience in science, engineering, or related technical fields, others bring experience in education or simply have a strong interest in science or in supporting student learning.
“We are anticipating one of the largest fairs in recent history with nearly 250 projects. WTA participation has increased from 50 students last year to almost 200 this year, so we are definitely in need of more judges,” said Christina Smith, supervisor of science, technology and Engineering for grades 5-12. Smith said the projects will be about 50-50 from both high schools.
“The biggest misconception about judging the fair is that you need to be a scientist or an engineer, but that’s not the case, we simply need community helpers who are invested in student learning. All the training you need is provided on the day, and support is available throughout the day for any new judges who have questions or want to ‘buddy judge’ with an experienced judge or teacher,” Smith said.
“Our students at Westfield High School and Westfield Technical Academy have been working diligently on projects that reflect creativity, curiosity, and real-world problem solving. The expertise and perspective of our judges play a meaningful role in encouraging their growth and helping them refine their scientific thinking,” said Superintendent Stefan Czaporowski.
Judges must be available to attend the Science Fair on Jan. 29 from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Westfield High School gymnasium. The morning will begin with a short training session, where experienced teachers will explain the scoring rubric and procedures and answer any questions.
During the fair, judges will visit student projects; students will explain their work and judges will have the opportunity to ask follow-up questions before filling out and submitting a scoring rubric. Students will never see the scores they’re given, but they will be able to view any written feedback on their projects.
For new judges, “buddy scoring” a project or two with an experienced judge is often very helpful and Westfield Public Schools staff is available to team up, according to science fair organizers, who say that good judges are curious, supportive, and focused on student learning. “If you enjoy talking with students and encouraging them to think about their work, you’ll make a great judge,” said Smith.
For more information about the fair, including judges’ responsibilities and the schedule for the day, and to sign up, visit https://sites.google.com/schoolsofwestfield.org/wpsscienceandengineeringfair or email Chrissy Smith at [email protected], and she will send you a sign-up form.
Coffee, light breakfast refreshments, and lunch will be provided courtesy of the WHS Culinary Arts department.
“Judging the science fair is a rewarding experience for both students and judges alike. Students benefit greatly from thoughtful feedback and professional insight, while judges often find the experience inspiring—a chance to engage with enthusiastic young scientists and see fresh ideas in action,” Czaporowski said.
