The YES Prep District Science Fair highlights what learning looks like in action as students present original research and apply scientific thinking to their presentations. This year marked the fourth annual fair, bringing standout science projects from campuses across the district and highlighting the strong learning happening in classrooms.
As part of the 6th and 7th grade science curriculum at YES Prep, the District Science Fair is a required learning experience for students. Over several weeks, students develop their own questions, test ideas, and use evidence to explain their thinking. Each campus then selects up to eight projects to advance to the district level, where students present their work to a panel of judges and an audience of families and staff.
As Kendall Robinson, content director for secondary academics, shared, “The District Science Fair gives students a chance to explore their own questions, investigate real-world problems, and proudly share their learning. It’s a celebration of curiosity, creativity, and hard work.”
This year’s fair featured an impressive selection of student projects evaluated by judges from a wide range of professional backgrounds. Their feedback challenged students to think deeply, explain their reasoning, and reflect on how their work could be improved. In addition to first, second, and third place awards, families and friends were invited to participate in the Family and Friends Choice Awards, allowing them to engage directly in the Science Fair experience.
District Science Fair Winners
- First Place - Kaylee Guerra, YES Prep West
- Project: A Shade Cooler: Painting a Greener Footprint
- Second Place - Alice Sheffield, YES Prep North Central
- Project: What Exercise Makes Your Heart Rate Go Up More?
- Third Place - Alissa Salas, YES Prep Southwest
- Project: Landslides
Family and Friends Choice Award Winners
- Christopher Cubias, YES Prep White Oak
- Project: Hydraulic Arm
- Lyan Nolasco, Northwest Secondary
- Project: How Does the Distance of the Planets From the Sun Affect Their Temperature?
- Marco Mauriquez, North Central Secondary
- Project: Houston Toilet Germs
All students recognized at the District Science Fair were invited to attend the Science and Engineering Fair of Houston. Several students will go on to compete later this month, continuing their journey beyond the YES Prep community and showcasing their learning on a larger stage.
Beyond science content, the District Science Fair helps students build essential skills that extend far past the classroom. Through long-term projects, students strengthen problem solving, organization, perseverance, and communication. Presenting to adults and defending ideas with evidence mirrors the expectations students will face in college and future careers.
Teachers play a critical role throughout the process. Sixth and seventh grade science teachers dedicate multiple class periods to help students get started and provide feedback along the way. Rather than giving answers, teachers guide students to think deeply, learn from mistakes, and take ownership of their work.
Reflecting on this growth, Robinson noted, “When students present their projects, they begin to see themselves differently. They think as scientists and problem solvers. Having their ideas heard and valued helps students believe in their abilities and take pride in their learning.”
As the District Science Fair continues to grow, so does student confidence. Each year, projects become more thoughtful, explanations clearer, and students more comfortable sharing their ideas.
For families, experiences like the District Science Fair offer a powerful reminder of what students are capable of achieving. By encouraging curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning, the Science Fair supports students not only in science, but in life.
View photos from YES Prep’s Fourth Annual District Science Fair.