Science Fair
Indian River Regional Science & Engineering Fair
What is the Indian River Regional Science & Engineering Fair program?
The Indian River Regional Science & Engineering Fair (IRRSEF) program has been the catalyst for developing confidence and critical thinking skills in Indian River County students (K-12th grades) since 1992. This evidence-based program reinforces math, reading, and writing skills through scientific research and discovery. Through the process of exploration and imagination children expand their academic potential.
School based fairs take place in November and December. The top finalist of each school advance to the IRRSEF to compete for over $1 million dollars in college scholarships and academic awards.
The IRRSEF takes place on the last Saturday in the month of January. More than 200 local volunteers, professionals, and research scientists mentor students and review science projects.
From the IRRSEF, 20 middle/high school projects (6th – 12th) are selected to advance to the State of Florida Science & Engineering Fair. One additional project is selected to advance to the Intel International Science & Engineering Fair.
Who are the benefactors?
Primary supporters are LJ Foundation, Publix Super Markets, Extant Aerospace, George E. Warren, and Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute Foundation.
Who are the participants?
Participants must attend an elementary, middle, or high school in Indian River County. We welcome public, independent, and homeschooled students to participate.
How does the Education Foundation participate?
The Education Foundation of Indian River County raises the funding for the IRRSEF. In partnership with the School District of Indian River County, the annual IRRSEF is held on the campus of Vero Beach High School.
The Education Foundation provides administrative structure and resources for planning and implementation of the fair. The SDIRC provides in-kind support for staff and facilities. Together the staff and resources of both organizations are coordinated to implement the school-based fairs and the regional IRRSEF.
What other groups or organizations are involved?
Independent schools like Saint Edward’s School actively participate and provide in-kind support of staff, volunteers, and transportation.
Why is the Education Foundation involved?
This program is true to our mission. For over 30 years the Education Foundation saw the need for what is now STEM in our schools to provide every student the opportunity to participate in the science fair.
What is the goal?
The IRRSEF program was created by the EFIRC in 1992 to serve a specific need in our education community – to provide ALL children an opportunity for discovery through science. The program has grown to include:
- Technical and financial assistance for local school fairs
- Teacher development and training programs in the area of science
- Resources and supports in the classroom for all children.
- Recognition/awards for student scientific achievement
- Student internships to encourage interest in science
- Scholarships for participation in state and international competitions
- Scholarships for college
This comprehensive program is the driver of science curriculums in public and private schools in Indian River County. It is the one academic program that combines all multi-disciplinary subjects.. The program offers every student (K-12) in Indian River County an opportunity to advance their skills, receive recognition and earn college scholarships.
What is the Education Foundations’ investment in dollars?
The IRRSEF program budget is $64,000 which includes supplies, chair/table rentals, awards, affiliation fees, and staff time.
What is the Education Foundations’ investment in human and other resources?
Staff time for implementation and oversight.
How is the performance to goal measured?
- Comparative Studies of students who participated vs. those who did not on standardized tests.
- Pre and Post surveys of teachers
- Evaluation of student attitudes related to pursuing science and STEM studies and careers via surveys.
What are the foundation’s expectations and projections for the future?
To fund the program and transition the implementation back to the SDIRC.
How is the program funded?
It’s part of the Education Foundation budget.
Why would a donor choose to support this program?
Anyone who likes to see students challenged and achieve would find their donations well spent.