Northbrook Junior High School Students Shine at Illinois Jr. Academy of Science State Fair with 23 Awards in Independent Science Research

Recently, a group of Northbrook Junior High School students returned home from the Illinois Junior Academy of Science State Fair with an impressive collection of 18 gold and 5 silver awards. These seventh and eighth graders participated in the fair as part of an independent science research program that allowed them to explore their interests through research projects.

Science teacher Amber Paull was impressed by the students’ genuine love for science, insightful questions, and effective teamwork. She believes that these skills will serve them well as they progress to high school. The semester-long course at NBJH enrolled students in various categories, including aerospace and environmental science. With guidance from science teachers Lauren Johnson, Fred Yoon, and Amber Paull, they followed the scientific method to conduct their experiments.

The judges evaluated the students’ projects based on oral presentations, written work, and adherence to the scientific method criteria outlined by the Illinois Jr. Academy of Science. Several students received special recognition for their exceptional projects. Henry Gartz and Simon Pick received the Exceptional Project in Category (EPIC) award in aerospace and environmental science respectively. Other students were honored with awards like the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge Award presented by the Illinois Soybean Association for outstanding projects in various categories.

Overall, Northbrook Junior High School showcased its passion for science and dedication to its research projects at the state science fair, earning recognition for their hard work and impressive achievements.