March 30, 2005

 

WISD Students Receive Top Honors at Regional Science Fair

15 WISD students were awarded for their superior work and research at the regional science Fair.  10 of those students are eligible to participate at the state science fair in San Antonio this weekend.  John D. Watson, a Tison Middle School eighth grader, received Best of Fair for his project in Botany.

In an effort to increase awareness and understanding of scientific methodology, the district sponsored its first district science fair during the 2003-2004 school year. 

Bill Symon, WISD science content coordinator, stated, "Science fairs make a significant impact on students as they are able to better understand the scientific method and increase problem solving skills that will aid them in success far beyond the classroom. We are very proud of our students success at the regional fair."

Last year, the WISD had only one student eligible for state competition.  This year, the district will have 2 elementary students and 6 secondary students attend state. 

The district is also hoping to see significant improvement in the Science Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) scores between the 2004 and 2005 test assessments.  The Student Success Initiative, a group which mandates passing requirements for the TAKS, requires that high school students pass the Grade 11 Exit Level TAKS test in science, language arts, math, and social studies in order to graduate. WISD realized a 16% increase in passing rate for the Science Exit Level test between the 2003 and 2004 years.

The 2005 Regional Science Fair winners are as follows: