Community Education - Rochester, Minnesota

68th Annual Rochester Regional STEM Fair The STEM Fair is an event where students showcase science and engineering projects. Prior to the event, students find a question or problem that interests them. They build prototypes or conduct experiments, sharing what they learned with their peers. Students can win awards based on the quality of their projects and presentations. Volunteers We need the help of more than 150 judges and other volunteers to make the STEM Fair possible. To indicate that you are interested, please click the "Enroll Now" button. If you are unsure about your availability, please complete the form and select "unsure" when asked about your availability. We will follow up with you closer to the event. Past volunteers tell us that they LOVE seeing student projects and giving meaninful encouragement. It is not necessary to hold a certain degree to become a judge. Anyone with a professional background in a field related to Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) is welcome. You will be assigned to projects most closely related to your background. The volunteer deadline is at 11:59 PM on February 13th, 2026. Judging the STEM Fair Who: Scientists, engineers, researchers, medical professionals, college students, or anyone with a STEM background When: Friday, February 27th, 2026 9:45 AM - 1:00 PM Where: RCTC Sports Center, 851 30th Ave SE, Rochester, MN 55904 Description: Offer feedback to 3-4 middle or high school students about their projects. Many students report that their favorite part of the STEM Fair experience is presenting their work to knowledgeable adults. Lunch will be provided at 12:30 PM. More than 150 judges are needed at the STEM Fair. If you know you will attend, we encourage you to invite your colleagues. Thank you to all of our new and returning judges! General Volunteer at the STEM Fair Who: Any adults Thursday 2/26 (Set up): 5:00-7:00 PM Where: RCTC Sports Center, 851 30th Ave SE, Rochester, MN 55904 Description: Set up tables, chairs, table numbers, etc. Friday 2/27 (Day of Fair) Shifts: 8:30-9:45 AM / 9:45 AM - 1:00 PM / 1:00 - 2:30 PM Lunch will be provided at 12:30 PM. Where: RCTC Sports Center, 851 30th Ave SE, Rochester, MN 55904 Description: Check in judges and students, take down and clean space Tuesday 3/4 (Awards Ceremony) 4-6 hours of advance planning for the Awards Ceremony event on March 4th Where: Dakota Middle School, 5501 65th St NW, Rochester, MN 55901 Description: Ensuring that all awards are assigned, all certificates are printed, and any physical prizes are organized Contact Information James Kappes Rochester Regional STEM Fair Director jakappes@rochesterschools.org