The S.T.E.M. department hosts several major events throughout the school year. The purpose of these events is to further peak student interest in STEM-related fields. Many scientists from our community donate their time to mentor, judge, and/or teach our IUSD students.
If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering as a scientist for any of these events, please fill out this form IUSD STEM Events Volunteer Registration. A STEM background is required.
For more information, please contact the STEM department at ValinaMoolchandani@iusd.org or (949) 936-5057.
Ask-A-Scientist/ENGINEER Night
This annual event prepares 6-12 grade students for their science fair project. During Ask-A-Scientist/Engineer Night, students are able to ask scientists, engineers, and STEM professionals questions and get advice about their ideas for their science fair project.
Date: Tuesday, October 14, 2025
Time: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Location: Creekside Education Center
Flyer: Ask A Scientist/Engineer Night
21st century career conference
Sponsored by Irvine Public Schools Foundation, select Middle School students have the opportunity to attend four break-out sessions. Students hear from a variety of dynamic speakers about the many exciting facets of scientific, technological, and engineering careers. Members of the community volunteer to speak or conduct demonstrations about their STEM related careers. Due to the limited space for this event, the selection process of which students may attend is at the discretion of the teacher.
TBD
Science Fair
Sponsored by Irvine Public Schools Foundation in partnership with Broadcom Foundation, the IUSD Science Fair provides 6th-12th grade students the opportunity to explore their STEM passions. Students who choose to participate will submit a Google Site containing a digital presentation, video and brief abstract.
All students will submit their projects by January 6, 2026 by 4:00 pm.
A Canvas course providing detailed instructions, resources, and examples is available to all students. Teacher mentors and Science Specialists will provide the link to students.
Please see the Science Fair Rules for additional information.
Important Dates
- September 19, 2025: Deadline for 6th Grade Students at K-6 schools to submit Intent to Participate to Science Specialists
- September 30, 2025: Deadline for 6th Grade Students at K-8 schools and 7th-12th Grade students to Register project with IUSD
- November 3, 2025: OCSEF Pre-Approval Project Registration Deadline
- Required for projects that include: human subjects, vertebrate animals, or potential hazards (biological agents, materials, equipment, chemicals, organisms, tissues, devices, activities, etc.)
- Students must receive OCSEF SRC Approval BEFORE starting their IUSD Science Fair project.
- Students must complete the corresponding Certification Form(s).
- Not sure if you need pre-approval? Click HERE to decide.
- January 6, 2026, 4:00 p.m.: IUSD Project Submission Deadline
- January 20 or 22, 2026: 9th-12th Grade IUSD Science Fair Interviews and Judging on Zoom
- January 21, 2026: 6th-8th Grade IUSD Science Fair Interviews and Judging In Person at Creekside Education Center
- February 4, 2026: IUSD Science Fair Awards Ceremonies (by invitation only)
OCSEF Resources
OCSEF provides additional support for students interested in participating in a Science & Engineering Fair.
Please click here to view submissions from the 2024-2025 Science Fair.