On Feb. 10, over 50 students set up boards in the cafeteria with the hope of winning the grand prize and eventually representing the school in the District Science Fair. The projects were full of creativity and insight, showcasing students’ efforts.

The projects were diverse in many ways. Medical research caught the attention of many judges and guests; notably, freshmen Jason Cui studied fungi and related it to the side effects experienced when treating cancer patients.
“This might be a great way to decrease the side effects that cancer patients have nowadays,” said Cui.

Many projects were based on environmental studies that might impact one’s life directly. Sophomore Gina Li studied the Everglades, focusing on the rate at which the wetlands are shrinking.  Li said that her inspiration for this project originated from her worry for our environment.

“I was concerned with what the diminishing of the Everglades would do to our ecosystem,” she said.

At the award ceremony, 30 students were awarded with first, second, or third prize based on the quality of their projects. The first and second prize winners are eligible to move on to the District Science Fair, which will take place at Robinson Secondary School in March.

The Grand Prize was awarded to Junior Kelly Martins, who chose to extend her research from her project the previous year.  Her project explores ways to decrease the amount of nitrogen and ammonia that comes from sewage systems. She found that Eichhornia, a plant commonly known as “Water Hyacinth,” reduces up to 80% of nitrate and 87% of ammonia in the water that humans eventually drink.

“I am very excited,” she said. “I didn’t expect this at all.”

The teachers who served as judges enjoyed the science fair projects as well.

“Every year, the students are different, so the projects differ,” said biology teacher Ms. Sarah Jones. “I always cannot wait to see what the students will come up with the next year.”

Teachers were also very confident in regard to how Langley students will do during future competitions. “I am sure that the students will do great at the districts,” said chemistry teacher Ms. Elisabeth Hoblitzell.