LAPS News:
The Los Alamos District Science & Engineering Fair is just around the corner and Los Alamos Public Schools needs your help.
LAPS has updated donation requirements for the 2026 Los Alamos District Science & Engineering Fair which will be held Friday, Jan. 2, and Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026, at Barranca Mesa Elementary School.
The LAPS Science & Engineering Fair continues to be one of the district’s most impactful academic events. Last school year, 100 students competed at the district level, with 45 advancing to the Regional Science Fair, 42 to the State competition. Several Senior Division students qualified to compete at the International Science & Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Ohio.
“This fair is a powerful way for students to explore STEM pathways, develop real-world problem-solving skills, and engage in high-level research,” said Davine Jones, Assistant Director of Curriculum & Instruction for LAPS. “The generosity of our community partners directly supports the growth, confidence, and success of our young scientists and engineers.”
Updated Donation Requirements
In alignment with guidance from district legal and financial advisors, all contributions must now be made by check and processed through the Los Alamos Public Schools Foundation. In addition:
- Checks should be made payable to Los Alamos Public Schools Foundation with the note: 2026 Science Fair.
- Donations must be received by Dec. 16, 2025.
- Funds cannot be allocated to individual award categories or targeted toward specific groups of students.
These adjustments ensure full compliance with financial guidelines while preserving the integrity and equity of the student competition.
Community Support Remains Critical
The District emphasizes that community sponsorship is still vital. Donations directly support the event’s logistics, materials, recognition awards, and opportunities for students to advance to higher-level competitions such as the Regional, State, and International Science & Engineering Fairs.
“Our community’s commitment has always been the backbone of this event,” said LAPS Superintendent Jennifer Guy. “We deeply value the organizations and individuals who invest in student curiosity, innovation, and achievement. Your support truly shapes the next generation of scientists, engineers, and problem-solvers.”
How to Contribute
Mail or deliver checks to:
Los Alamos Public Schools
2075 Trinity Drive
Los Alamos, NM 87544
Checks should be made payable to Los Alamos Public Schools Foundation with the note: 2026 Science Fair.
For questions about sponsorship or the updated donation process, please contact Davine Jones at 505.663.2340 or davine.jones@laschools.net.
Photo: Last year’s senior division winners Tate Plohr, Lilia Viteva and Alyssa Sun.