NWC News Desk

Northwest College needs volunteers for Feb. 9 and 10 science fair

Posted January 22, 2009
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P O W E L L,  W y o. - Northwest College is asking area residents to consider becoming judges at the 2009 Northwest Regional Science Fair Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 9 and 10, in Cabre Gym.

"No experience, science background or special knowledge is required," said Bob Krenz, chair of NWC's Physical Science Division, which is hosting the fair. "We train judges and then pair the novices with those who have more experience," Krenz said. "Volunteers at previous science fairs have told us they were surprised at how quickly they caught on. Most find it a personally rewarding and satisfying experience."

Middle and high school students from across the northern half of Wyoming will compete in the two-day event by displaying and explaining their science projects to the judges. Top students in each category will have the opportunity to qualify for state and national competitions.

Krenz said he needs volunteers willing to adjudicate both middle and high school projects. Judges will meet for dinner and a training session Monday evening, Feb. 9. Afterward, they'll review and evaluate projects without the students present. Judges return at 8 a.m. the next day for breakfast and another meeting before interviewing students about their projects. Judging is usually completed by noon, and judges will be treated to lunch at the college's dining hall afterward.

"These students are the ones willing to put in the extra effort to develop a science project for competition," Krenz said. "We'd like to have enough judges to give them a meaningful assessment, and we're counting on the community to help us."

Individuals who would like to volunteer to judge or want more information about judging are encouraged to e-mail Lori Austill or call (307) 754-6410.