Crofton Meadows Science Fair

Did you ever wonder which candy bar melts the quickest? Or how to change the color of a flower? Or what makes steel wool rust? The students at no longer wonder.

Tuesday these and many other questions were answered when the school’s annual science fair took place. 

"Crofton Meadows Elementary School’s vision statement is simple: Challenging Minds, Enhancing Success” said fair coordinator Mary Olivier. 

The third grade teacher believes that the annual science fair helps children strive towards success.

“Students don’t need to qualify to be a part of the fair.  Anyone who is interested can participate, so the children are very motivated,” says Olivier. She feels that the fair provides a wonderful opportunity for enrichment.

“We are very fortunate that 12 Force 3 employees were this judges again this year.   From the feedback that was given, they were very impressed with the quality of projects this year. Also, that so many of the students were able to present their projects and give detailed explanations,” explained Olivier.  She said it was obvious the children had put a lot of work into their projects and knew in-depth about their subject matter. 

Force 3, a technology service provider based in Crofton, has been judging the science fair for the past three years.

“Force 3 is always pleased to be a part of Crofton Meadows School’s science fair. For the past three years we have participated and find it so much fun. A group of us mentor kids there from all ages and so we all enjoy seeing what other kids are doing and how they are growing,” said Jim Byrd of Force 3.

“Personally I always am pleased to see how many have done most of the work without their parents ‘fingerprints’ all over the panels.  There are some great minds and being that Force 3 is a technology based company we want to encourage kids who find science fun,” said Byrd.   

Each grade level was awarded first, second and third place.  The first place winners will go onto the county level fair taking place in May.  Third grader Evan Hartnett, fourth grader Alex Joya and fifth grader Beth Ann Woodruff will be going to the county science fair.

“We are so proud of our students.  The overall quality this year was outstanding.  The students did a great job in articulating the scientific methods they used.  Our school will be well represented at the county level,” said Janie Robinson CMES principal.

“It is very difficult to pick winners.  All the projects were impressive this year,” said Olivier.