NEWPORT –– The spirit of innovation is alive and well in the North Country region as final preparations are underway for the third annual Grade 5–8 North Country Science and Engineering Fair (NCSEF).
Slated for Thursday, February 20, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the North Country Union High School gym, this collaborative event is set to bring together over 450 students from eight local schools. Organizers anticipate an exciting day filled with scientific discoveries, interactive engineering challenges, and plenty of community support.
This year, a remarkable $10,000 in grants and contributions has been raised from Vermont STEM industries and local organizations, allowing students to push the boundaries of their creativity and technical skills. Participants will present a wide range of projects—from imaginative prototypes to scientific research—demonstrating the high level of curiosity and innovation found in today’s youth.
One of the standout features of this year’s fair is the mentorship provided by more than 90 STEM Club students from North Country Union High School. These older students have been guiding their younger peers in developing projects, offering insight on scientific methods and best engineering practices. They will also lead exciting hands-on engineering challenges, ensuring that the day is as interactive as it is informative.
A total of eight schools are confirmed to participate in the fair:
- Brighton Elementary School
- Charleston Elementary School
- Coventry Village School
- Derby Elementary School
- Jay-Westfield Elementary School
- Lowell Graded School
- Newport City Elementary School
- North Country Union Junior High School
Organizers are keeping details of a special guest appearance tightly under wraps, but rumor has it that a representative from Boston Scientific may make an appearance—further evidence of the fair’s impact in attracting professionals from top STEM companies.
Behind the scenes, generous sponsors have stepped forward to bring the NCSEF to life. Contributing organizations include the Vermont Community Fund, EIV Technical Services, VASE (Vermont Academy of Science and Engineering), Community National Bank VT, Vermont Microtechnologies, Passumpsic Bank, Green Mountain Power, North Country Credit Union, Vermont Electric Coop, Jay Peak Resort, and Darn Tough Socks. Their support covers everything from project materials to event logistics, ensuring each young scientist and engineer has the resources needed to succeed.
“This year’s North Country Science and Engineering Fair promises to highlight the hard work and creativity of our students,” says Aaron Miller, STEM Instructional Coach for the North Country Supervisory Union. “Our future depends on the curiosity and innovation of our students, and we are grateful for the support that makes this event possible.”
With community excitement building, this year’s event looks poised to spark new ideas and set the stage for the next generation of innovators.