(Eureka) – The 2024 CA State Science and Engineering Fair took place on April 16 in a virtual competition. Students spent months researching and creating their projects. More than 800 students participated from 344 schools. Humboldt County has long been involved in CA State Science and Engineering Fair. This year, more than 200 students participated in the 41st annual Humboldt County Doris Niles Science Fair, held at the Humboldt County Office of Education (HCOE), run by 65 volunteers. There were 237 projects submitted for the competition. The county selected 16 projects to advance to State competition across the elementary, junior and senior (high school) levels.
Kirsten Thuresson, A senior Engineer for CalTrans expressed: “Across all fields of study students took an interest in topics that they were directly connected to (i.e. happening in their backyard or within their home) or would benefit from knowing the solution to (best music, ingredients, etc.). Students also showed there is more than one way to tackle a question – there was such a diversity in problem solving. I enjoyed the practical experiments that looked for insight on processes we may just complete on autopilot, such as the best technique to hammer a nail. It was great to see all levels of education and interests involved, students often took their interest to the next creative level often taking a scientific lens to a hobby.”
Of the 16 projects that advanced to the State, three students were recognized for their submissions: All three placed in the Earth & Environment: Air/Water category.
- 1st place: Norah Souza from Hydesville Elementary School, “Troutin’ About”
- 2nd place: Elizabeth Stevens from Fortuna Middle School, ” Bursting Bubble Ice”
- Honorable Mention: Kjersti Macdonald from Jacoby Creek School, “Is Moss the Boss of Water Loss?”
Superintendent of Schools, Michael Davies-Hughes remarked, “I am incredibly proud of our Humboldt County students’ outstanding achievements in the science fair. Their innovative projects showcase not only their dedication to scientific inquiry but also their commitment to excellence in education. These students are the future leaders and problem solvers, and their success in the science fair is a testament to their hard work and ingenuity.”
For more information regarding State or Humboldt County Doris Niles Science Fair, please visit https://hcoe.org/science-fair/ or https://csef.usc.edu/
Contacts
Dr. Shannon Morago, HCOE STEM Learning Specialist, smorago@hcoe.org 707-445-7072
Stacy Young, Director of Community Outreach and Engagement outreach@hcoe.org 707-445-7024