Inside classrooms, gyms and media centers across Lenoir County Public Schools, science is not just a subject. It is a hands-on journey fueled by curiosity, experimentation and discovery.
That journey was on full display during the district’s annual Celebration of Science, where 82 students presented 53 projects that advanced from individual school science fairs. The projects reflected weeks of research, testing and data analysis, showcasing the depth of scientific thinking taking place across the district.
Students explored a wide range of topics, blending creativity with real-world applications. From investigating environmental concerns to testing engineering solutions and studying biological processes, each project highlighted the strong STEM foundation being built in LCPS classrooms.
The event also provided students with valuable experience sharing their work publicly. Participants explained their research to guests, answered questions and demonstrated the confidence that comes from truly understanding a subject.
“Science gives students the opportunity to ask questions about the world around them and then discover the answers through investigation,” said Christel Carlyle, director of middle grade education. “When students engage in scientific exploration, they develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that extend far beyond the classroom.”
That strong foundation carried beyond the district level. LCPS students made an exceptional showing at the Region 1 Science Fair, competing against students from 19 other counties across Eastern North Carolina. Twenty-nine LCPS students earned overall winner, honorable mention or special award recognition. In total, LCPS students accounted for 50% of all winning projects at the regional competition.
“The success of our students at regionals reflects the hard work, creativity, and support behind this year’s science fair,” said Dr. Stephanie Harrell, STEM coordinator for LCPS. “When students are encouraged to explore and innovate, amazing things happen.”
District leaders say those results are a reflection of consistent classroom instruction combined with opportunities for students to apply their learning through project-based experiences.
“Science fairs allow students to take ownership of their education,” Carlyle said. “When they design experiments, analyze results and present their findings, they are building confidence and communication skills while learning how to think like scientists.”
Events such as the Celebration of Science help reinforce those skills while inspiring students to pursue interests in science, technology and innovation. They also highlight the collaboration between teachers, families and the community in supporting student success.
As LCPS continues its STEM-focused initiatives, science remains a key starting point for encouraging exploration, creativity and achievement. Through hands-on learning opportunities and real-world problem solving, students are gaining the tools they need to succeed in school and in future careers.