Young scientists from across Chester County showcased their knowledge and engaged in friendly rivalry at the 2026 Chester County Science Research Competition (CCSRC), organized by the Chester County Intermediate Unit and hosted by Church Farm School.
CFS recently hosted 369 students (from 50 schools) who displayed their love of science across 15 different categories, including botany, computer science, engineering, and more.
The CCSRC, which is sponsored by Church Farm School, CCRES, and the Children’s Fund of Chester County, offers two opportunities for students to share their scientific findings: the Dr. Lucy Balian Rorke-Adams Fair is for students in grades 6-12, and the Dr. Jonas Salk Fair is for students in grades 4-5. This year, the Rorke-Adams Fair included 54 volunteer judges, while the Salk Fair included 41 volunteer judges, each offering unique expertise from a variety of backgrounds across many industries.
At both fairs, students presented the results of months-long research projects as judges asked questions and offered valuable feedback. After each student was interviewed, the judges deliberated in category-based groups and determined this year’s winners.
After a full day of competition, both the Rorke-Adams Fair and the Salk Fair concluded with an open house in the evening, where students and their families had the opportunity to browse all the projects.
Among the many outstanding works on display at the Salk fair, the judges called special attention to Sadie Bryan from Beaver Creek Elementary School. Her presentation was titled “Can You Hear Me Now?” and was awarded Best of Fair.
“This is such a great experience, and I can’t thank the CCIU enough for pulling this together,” said Dr. Delfi Krishna, a volunteer judge with a degree in chemical engineering. “The students learn so many hard and soft skills, like the scientific method and how to design and experiment, and collect data, but they also learn the most important soft skill, which is critical thinking. In the age of TikTok and YouTube, to do proper research and develop opinions based on critical thinking by looking at every different angle before coming to a conclusion, is incredibly important today.”
“I loved being able to teach people about our project,” said Aania Kawade, a student at Brandywine Wallace Elementary School. “We really love chemistry, so getting to conduct the experiment was one of my favorite parts. I love explaining all the science and why something worked, or why this works instead of that. Getting to share that with the judges was really exciting.”
Hitha Srinivasa, Aania’s project partner, shared the same enthusiasm.
“I love science, and this fair gave us the chance to really dig into it,” she said. “I love space, and my grandfather was a rocket scientist in India, so I would love to be a rocket scientist for the United States one day.”
When asked if they could see themselves pursuing careers in science, both girls answered without hesitation.
“Of course,” they said in unison.
“This competition transforms students,” said Kathy Gurnee, the CCIU’s special events coordinator. “Hundreds of young minds from across Chester County come together to showcase their ideas, build confidence, and connect with peers who share their curiosity. They don’t just learn about science; they become scientists.”
About Our Partner
Church Farm School
Church Farm School exists to help boys become the men they’re meant to be. With a century of academic excellence, a tight-knit boarding community, and deep roots in Chester County, CFS is where character gets built and potential gets unleashed. This is where young men come to find out what they’re capable of.
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