Clatskanie hosts 2025 Science Fair

The 2025 Science Fair was held at Clatskanie Middle High School on Wednesday, March 12. According to Principal Laurie Maughan, hundreds of elementary, middle and high school students “packed the gymnasium to present their scientific endeavors and take learning to new heights.” Awards and scholarships were presented to different category winners at the end of the night.

“Last year’s science fair was so successful that we’ve had to expand our awards and make more room for all the submissions,” said Maughan. “I’m so thankful to our students, parents, teachers, administrators and funding partners that brought this all together.”

Among the funding partners were NXTClean Fuels, which served as the presenting sponsor, and Clatskanie Public Utilities District. According to Maughan, other partners to the event included the Clatskanie Public Library, Wauna Credit Union, United Way of Columbia County and Community Action Team. “All partners involved are dedicated to furthering STEM opportunities and were thrilled to support expanding the science fair for the Clatskanie School District,” said Maughan.

Representing NXTClean Fuels, Director of Communications Michael Hinrichs said, “These students are electric with ideas, and we want to be there to empower their creativity and ambitions.”

According to Maughan, local leaders like Clatskanie Mayor Bob Brajcich, Port Commissioner Brian Fawcett, Clatskanie School Board Member Ian Wiggins observed, volunteered, judged, and presented awards. Wiggins served as the event’s emcee. Clatskanie Public Utilities District Director Sarah Johnson said, “We had so much fun seeing all the different experiments and inventions. These students are the next generation of talent that can drive our county into the future.”