FAQs

Q: Who will can participate at the District and Regional Fair?

A: The District fair welcomes the top 8 projects from all D60 schools for the Elementary Fair. The Regional Fair hosts projects from middle and high schools in Pueblo, Fremont and Custer counties, including surrounding private, charter, and home school students.

Q: How do I qualify for the Colorado State Science Fair?

A: Judges at the Regional Fair will score individual projects. Select qualifying secondary regional finalists will be invited to participate in the annual Colorado State Science and Engineering Fair in Fort Collins April 9-11th, 2026. Qualifiers are not necessarily chosen by their categorical place (1st, 2nd, 3rd). Not all students grades 6-12 advance to State, but may still place 1, 2, 3, honorable mention, or earn a special award.

Q: Can I compete individually? With a team?

A: Students can register projects as individuals or as a team. Teams may consist of no more than three (3) students. At the secondary level, all registered teammates must be present at the STEM Fair. No substitution of teammates will be allowed. A team absence will result in disqualification. If a team drops to only one member, the project CANNOT be entered in the individual category. Teams can be mixed grade levels. 

Q: Where can I get more project ideas?

A: Check out these links for some inspiration!

Q: What if my project involves "sensitive subjects" such as humans, vertebrates, potentially hazardous biological agents, hazardous substances or devices, or micro organisms or rDNA.

A: You will need to review the information on the Regional Fair page. Start by reading through ISEF rules for your sensitive subject type. The Regional Scientific Review Committee will review additional paperwork once a month with deadlines of October 1, November 1, and December 1. Please email mary.jose@pueblod60.org for more information. 

Q: Who do I contact with questions about Regional Paperwork?

A: Mary Jose D60 Science Coordinator at mary.jose@pueblod60.org.

Q: How do I register/turn in paperwork for the STEM Fair?

A: District: Registration opens January 1, 2026 and closes Wednesday, January 28, 2026. 

    Regional: Registration is already open! All paperwork is due by Wednesday, January 28, 2026. 

See the registration page for more details.  Help with paperwork is available BEFORE the due date. No projects without paperwork will be accepted for competition. 

Q: Will there be an awards ceremony or open house?

A: Yes, there will be an open house and awards ceremony for all student projects on Thursday, March 5th, 2026 at Colorado State University - Pueblo. Please check back for a more detailed schedule. 

Q: Can my parent or teacher help me set up?

A: The exhibit area will only be open to judges and students during interviewing: parents and sponsors will not be permitted.  There will be space available in the lobby for parents/guardians and sponsors to wait while students are being interviewed.

Q: What should I bring to the fair?

A: Competitors in the STEM Fair should dress for success. You may need to wait for your interview with a judge so make sure you bring a book or electronics with earbuds and a water bottle. No food or other drinks will be allowed. 

Q: What is STEM Fair etiquette?

A: The STEM Fair is a formal event with rules and procedures. Students who are invited to compete must plan to arrive on time and prepared for their interview with the judges. When judges are viewing a project, students must be present and ready to answer questions. It is important cellphones and other activities stop when judges approach projects to allow for accurate scoring.

Q: What if my project needs an outlet?

A: If your project requires electricity please email Mary Jose D60 Science Coordinator at mary.jose@pueblod60.org.as soon as possible. 

Q: When do I pick up my project?

A: All projects must be picked up at the end of the Open House on Thursday, March 5th, 2026.