On March 2, 2013, the Central Western Section of the Science Teachers Association of NYS will sponsor the thirty sixth annual Science Congress at St. John Fisher College. Students (grades 6-12) from the region represented by Central Western Section present their research projects to scientists and educators who judge their understanding, research methods, and ability to communicate. Many student projects are recognized with awards, such as Honorable Mention, Honors, High Honors, and Highest Honors. In addition, special awards are presented by organizations for exceptional work in particular subjects. The highest reward is to be chosen to present at the STANYS State Science Congress or at the prestigious Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)*. Some participants may be eligible to participate in a special middle school program entitled Broadcom MASTERS * (a competition in Math, Applied Science, Technology and Energy for Rising Stars). It is a joint effort of Broadcom and the Society for Science and the Public (SSP). The ISEF and Broadcom MASTERS opportunities offer our students horizon broadening experiences at the national level. It is only through the support of area businesses, local professional organizations, St. John Fisher College, the military, scientists, teachers, and other individuals, that Central Western Section is able to hold a Science Congress and to make these unique opportunities possible.
* Funding for 2013 has not been assured to enable STANYS-CWS to participate in these national and international programs.
The Science Congress Committee is composed of members from education and industry. Some people volunteer their time to find judges, mentors, sources of awards, and donations. Other volunteers register the students, make educational connections, or review student work for conformity to ISEF regulations. If you are interested in being a member of the Committee, a judge, or have ideas about sources of donations, please contact Director Dr. Jutta Dudley (juttasd@aol.com) or Co-Director Sheila Root (sroot@sjfc.edu).