Discover the Exciting World of Science at Our Health Fair: A Must-Attend Event for Students!

Taylor Steeves, chair of the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors Club Anita Jackson Scholarship Committee, awarded a $500 scholarship to Alex “Cookie” West, a non-traditional student, in Steubenville. Chamber President Emily Byers joined them.

STEUBENVILLE — Young students in Steubenville City Schools are getting a fun lesson in science. The sixth annual Dr. Santiago Ching Memorial Health Fair is happening on March 13-14.

Fourth graders from various local schools, including Wells Academy and McKinley STEM Academy, will visit Pugliese STEM Academy. The event runs from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. each day. This year’s format is fresh and exciting. Instead of competition, students will explore different interactive learning stations to discover more about science.

Kayla DiMarzio, head of the science department, is organizing the fair with gifted director Jackie Reeves. “This is a special way to honor Dr. Santiago Ching,” DiMarzio said. He was a doctor deeply involved in local health initiatives.

Dr. Ching started the health fair in 2019 after wanting to encourage more students to consider careers in medicine. He and his wife, Wilma, provided initial funding and support. The fair began at Harding Middle School and evolved to include various competitions, but now it’s focused on engaging fourth graders.

At the fair, students will navigate through 11 immersive stations. “This is a new way for them to connect,” DiMarzio mentioned. The activities help them get ready for fifth grade while encouraging teamwork. High school science teachers supervise these stations, with upperclassmen leading activities on topics like healthy eating and mental health.

The goal is to spark curiosity in health careers. Organizers believe that early exposure to health education can help students not only learn but also become better problem solvers. They’ll experience different aspects of STEM and career-focused education.

“This helps strengthen our STEM program,” DiMarzio added, referencing health informatics and biomedical programs. By participating, students gain valuable skills that could inspire future careers in healthcare.