Excitement Builds for CDS Innovators Heading to the 2025 Hillsborough Regional STEM Fair
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 Anticipation is rising at Carrollwood Day School as a group of our fourth and fifth grade students gear up to showcase their impressive STEM Fair projects at the prestigious 2025 Hillsborough Regional STEM Fair. These young innovators, who first presented their work on our campus, are now preparing to represent CDS on Wednesday, February 12th, at the Tampa Convention Center. This renowned event is one of the largest STEM Fairs in the Southeast, featuring around 2,500 projects from elementary students across Hillsborough County.

For CDS students, the road to the STEM Fair has been a journey of exploration, creativity, and innovation. Beginning in October, a group of nineteen motivated fourth and fifth graders elected to participate in the challenge of this optional STEM Fair project, dedicating months to research and experimentation. While teachers provided periodic check-ins and guidance, these budding scientists tackled their projects outside of school hours, demonstrating remarkable dedication as they balanced their research with regular classwork.

From groundbreaking inventions to experiments in biology, chemistry, and engineering, the projects reflect a remarkable range of interests and ingenuity. Their STEM Fair projects ranged from inventing prototypes designed to assist family members, to exploring pressing questions, such as the effects of cell phone radiation and strategies for stress management, showcasing their curiosity and creativity. Some students worked independently, while others collaborated in small groups, gaining valuable experience in teamwork and problem-solving.

The Hillsborough Regional STEM Fair offers more than just a platform for competition, it’s a chance for our students to engage with peers from other schools, develop confidence in public speaking, and immerse themselves in the spirit of innovation. Winners from the fair will earn the opportunity to advance to state and national competitions, igniting even greater enthusiasm for STEM education.

As the big day approaches, the CDS community stands proudly behind these young innovators, cheering them on as they prepare to represent our school with creativity and character. Their hard work and dedication remind us that with curiosity and determination, the possibilities are endless. Stay tuned for updates as we celebrate the incredible achievements of our students at this inspiring event! The CDS community is especially grateful for our CDS Teachers and STEM Advisors, Lana Vargo and Stephanie Rodriguez-Sarrion for their guidance and inspiration in the STEM field and through this process, making our students dreams become reality.

stem fair winners