Melfa, VA — Robin Rich-Coates, Associate Professor of Biology/Chemistry at Eastern Shore Community College, has announced that the College’s annual science fair will be held from 8:00 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 5. This year’s fair will emphasize the importance of protecting the environment.

The Fair gives kindergarten through twelfth grade students the opportunity to feature exhibits of projects, working models, or other visual presentations that demonstrate scientific principles or solve problems using the scientific method.

Robin Rich-Coates states, “The Science Fair is an opportunity for students and the schools to show off their scientific abilities.  Academic work in the area of science is sometimes neglected.  The Science Fair is an excellent way to encourage students in this field and give them recognition for their work.”

To assure equitable competition, there is a Lower Primary Division (kindergarten and first grade); an Upper Primary Division (second and third grade); an Elementary Division (fourth and fifth grade); a Middle School Division (sixth, seventh and eighth grades); and a High School Division (grades nine through twelve).  All students will receive certificates of participation. First, second, and third place trophies and gift cards will be given in each division; and there will be two honorable mention trophies for each division. A special award will be given for the best project in each division dealing with environmental issues.

Students may enter as individuals or groups. Students wishing to enter should see their science teacher or principal for further details and to obtain an entry form.   The entry deadline is Friday, March 28.  Call Robin Rich-Coates at (757)789-1726 or email at rrich-coates@es.vccs.edu for more information.  A schedule of events will be distributed through the schools as well as published in the newspaper closer to the time of the Science Fair.

In addition to the student projects, there will be informational booths and other activities for visitors including a special show presented by Mad Science of Hampton Roads.

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