The creativity and ingenuity of King School’s students were evident at this year's Upper School Science Fair. The annual event, now in its seventh year, showcased work from the entire Grade 9 class as well as students in Grades 10-12 enrolled in the Science Research elective class and all ASPIRE students.

Leon Wang ’26 presented new research on bacteria-fueled batteries and their potential for cleaner energy production. 

“This is a huge step for more efficient and more acceptable green energy,” Leon said, “and I look forward to seeing it used more in the future.”

Leon was one of 100 students who presented in the upper school gym twice on Wednesday, May 12. A morning session during school hours allowed the students a chance to practice presenting to their peers and teachers before a more formal, judged evening session.

Projects reflected the wide range of interests, including research in chemistry, biology, physics, engineering, and more. While all Grade 9 students present new research, students in the Science Research Elective Class and ASPIRE students can in present new work or elaborate on previous projects.

Most of the work leading up to the fair is completed in the second semester; however, a particular area of focus can be decided at any time. For Sydney Hauben ’25, having frizzy hair on the first day of school inspired her research.

“The purpose of this project was to figure out which hair products would be the best in preventing frizziness,” Sydney said.

After researching different product solutions, she hypothesized that those containing the chemical polyquaternium-70 would perform the best. Conducting a series of tests with a tensile sensor allowed her to measure the elasticity of the hair using each product before and after being put into a humid environment. Her findings were then put into an equation in order to determine the humidity resistance factor.

In addition to recognizing the accomplishments of King students, the fair is a testament to the expertise and dedication of the entire Science Department.

“Each student leans primarily on their current Science teacher for direct support,” said Director of Science Research Dr. Victoria Schulman. “If a student's teacher is less familiar with the topics or techniques that a student wishes to pursue, we team those students up with another member of the Science Department.”

Winning projects will be announced at the STEM Colloquium on Wednesday, May 24. First, second, and third place awards are given in three categories Grade 9, Science Research Elective, and ASPIRE. Honorable mentions and a single Best-In-Fair award are also presented at the colloquium.