Kelly Hjertstedt

York Alternative High School has received approval from the Chicago Public Schools to participate in the annual science fair for the first time. Hjertstedt wanted to ensure that her students would have the same advantages as o ther fair participants in her school system, regardless of the obstacles. She decided to organize an after school program, "Get Us to the Science Fair," for students interested in participating in the fair, to support the completion of their projects and to receive feedback from classmates on their progression. Students enter an oral presentation via videotape and their exhibit board travels to the fair location on their behalf. Follow-up questions will be called into the Department of Corrections where a teacher will serve as a liaison between the judges and the students. In addition to enhancing their appreciation for science, students in the program will show that obstacles can be overcome to create effective learning opportunities. They will also learn that their alternative school can offer educational opportunities equivalent to other public schools in the area. Monies received will fund all administrative and project materials Hjertstedt lives in Chicago.