Thursday, October 1, 2026
The science research program at South Side High School capped a busy day of competition and presentation with its annual science fair, showcasing months of student work across biology, chemistry and independent research projects.
Before the fair, students split off to compete in two separate events. Eighteen students attended the South Asian American Women’s Alliance South Shore competition at Merrick Golf Course, a contest for students in grades nine through 12. Another seven students competed at the NYSF Andromeda competition at Jericho High School, accompanied by a mentor familiar with the judging process.
After returning from the competitions, students regrouped at the school’s science fair, where they presented their research to parents who had followed their progress throughout the year and were eager to see the final results.
“I’m so excited to have you here,” Principal Patrick Walsh said to attendees. “We have some really exciting things happening here in the field of science research at South Side High School.”
Madeline Getty, science research coordinator in her first year with the program, said the experience has been deeply rewarding, noting that students produced work they are proud of while growing as scientists.
“This has been the best experience of my life,” Getty told the Herald. “It is so fulfilling to see the students being able to produce something that they are so proud of. And for them to be able to see that they're learning, they're growing and they're scientists.”
Each day, students arrive eager to begin their projects, donning lab coats and goggles before getting to work. The science fair includes all ninth-grade students, as well as 10th-graders enrolled in advanced chemistry.
Chemistry students complete chemistry-focused projects, while biology students focus on biology-related research. Science research students pursue a broader range of topics based on their courses and individual interests.
Among the first-place winners were Isabella Schmidt in biology for “The effects of espresso strength on tooth discoloration”; Christina Thangavelu and Mara Davidson in chemistry for “Which plastic type is the most resistant in an acid and base?”; Haruka Brown in Science Research Skills 1 for “The effect of sodium bicarbonate on Vigna radiata”; and Basim Jamal in Science Research Skills 2 for “The effect of high-dose caffeine and nicotine on the behavior of Drosophila melanogaster.”
The program currently includes 27 students in grades nine through 12, with more than 30 freshmen expected to join next year.
