FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 18, 2025
Chatham County Schools Celebrates Student Innovation at 2025 District Science Fair
PITTSBORO, N.C. — Chatham County Schools proudly hosted its 2025-2026 District Science Fair on Wednesday, December 17 at Jordan-Matthews High School, showcasing the creativity and scientific inquiry of students from across the county. This year’s fair highlighted the academic excellence and imaginative problem-solving skills of students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
The evening opened with a welcome from LaShonda Hester, Executive Director of Middle Grades Education, followed by remarks from Superintendent Dr. Anthony D. Jackson. The event drew students, families, educators, and community members together in celebration of student achievement in science and engineering.
“This year’s fair was a powerful reminder of the curiosity and capability of our students,” said Hester. “Their hard work, supported by dedicated teachers and families, continues to inspire us all. We are especially proud of our expanding participation and the high-quality projects presented in every category.”
The 2025-26 Overall Winner was Sarah Hoopes from Margaret B. Pollard Middle School. Her project, titled “Do Moonlight, Rain, and Temperature Impact Deer Sightings?” earned the top distinction of the fair along with a $100 prize.
First-place winners from grades 3–12 will advance to the NC Regional Science Fair, held February 7, 2026, at Western Guilford High School in Greensboro. Projects spanned fields such as Earth and Environmental Science, Chemistry, Engineering, Mathematics, and more.
A special thank-you goes to the dedicated educators, staff, volunteers, and the 24 community judges who made this event possible. For a full list of winners, visit https://bit.ly/3L72SM8.
For more information on Chatham County Schools’ science initiatives, contact CCS’s Public Information Officer, Jessica Pasión, at (919) 542-3626 or visit www.chatham.k12.nc.us.
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Contact:
Jessica Pasión
468 Renaissance Drive
Pittsboro, NC 27539
Phone: (919) 542-3626
About Chatham County Schools
Chatham County Schools serves roughly 9,000 students across 20 schools in central North Carolina. With a commitment to excellence, equity, anπd engagement, the district works in partnership with families and the community to prepare ALL students for success in college, careers, and life.
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