In collaboration with partners from the Woods Hole science and research community, Falmouth Public Schools proudly hosted the 2nd Annual Reverse Science Fair at Falmouth High School, creating an electrifying atmosphere of scientific exploration on October 19, 2023. The event featured thirteen experts from esteemed Woods Hole institutions and local colleges and universities. This event showcased the commitment of our community to providing equitable access for all Clippers while fostering a passion for science and innovation.
This unique Reverse Science Fair immersed over one hundred students from grades 8 through 12 in dynamic scientific discussions, with students rotating through stations and engaging on diverse scientific and engineering topics with science experts from organizations such as Marine Biological Laboratory/University of Chicago, Sea Education Association, and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. This event provided opportunities for collaboration between students and scientists. Falmouth High teacher Cory Dubuque reported that the event motivated students to begin brainstorming about their science project. A ninth grade student shared, “I got to see what projects a real scientist would be doing, and I really liked talking to different scientists.”
It wasn’t only the students who enjoyed this event. One of the scientist participants noted, “In addition to meeting some great students I also made some important new connections with other presenters.”
An extension of this event occurred when students from Grade 8 at the Lawrence School joined a group of high school students and the scientists for lunch. This cross-grade interaction allowed for shared scientific conversations, fostering mentorship in an informal setting. The collaborative atmosphere enhanced the educational experience, promoting a sense of community and shared curiosity about ways to authentically apply classroom learning. Students left inspired to begin projects for the 2024 STEAM fair. Since the event, Stacy Strong, STEAM fair coordinator and Carmela Mayeski, district learning partnerships specialist, have met with students to support their science fair projects and continue these connections. Educators value the Reverse Fair as a key way to increase opportunities for students who are traditionally underrepresented to meet research professionals, gain confidence in talking about their learning, and even participate in our STEAM Fair.
Providing all students access to the internationally renowned Woods Hole science partnership has been a districtwide priority as a result of the support from FPS Superintendent, Dr. Lori Duerr, and the School Committee. The additional efforts from Ms. Mayeski and Ms. Strong have supported these meaningful interactions between students and professionals, creating a platform for in-depth discussions and hands-on experiences for all students.