By Andi Anderson
The Junior State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa has received the Governor’s STEM Seal of Approval from the Iowa Governors STEM Council.
The recognition was awarded in December 2025 and honors programs that support high quality science technology engineering and math education for young students across Iowa.
The Governor’s STEM Seal of Approval recognizes programs that align with Iowa’s STEM goals and provide hands on inquiry-based learning. The junior fair was honored for its innovative approach that engages students in grades three through five in real scientific research communication and problem solving.
“This recognition reinforces the importance of introducing STEM learning at an early age,” said Alexa Groff founder and director of the Junior State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa. “JSSTFI gives young students across Iowa the opportunity to explore their curiosity ask meaningful questions and begin to see themselves as scientists and innovators.”
During the fall 2025 season 279 students from communities across Iowa participated in six junior fairs. This marked an increase of more than 250 percent compared to the previous spring season.
Participants included 67 third graders 119 fourth graders and 93 fifth graders. Several students were also involved in Iowa 4 H, showing strong connections between classroom learning and youth programs.
Events were hosted at six regional locations including Atlantic, Orange City, Coralville, Dubuque, Des Moines, and Mason City. These sites allowed both rural and urban families to take part in age-appropriate science fair experiences.
“As someone who loves helping youth explore the world around them the Junior Science Fair is especially meaningful to me,” said Sarah DeBour of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. “It’s amazing to watch youth ask questions test ideas and realize they’re capable of doing real science.”
Students shared similar excitement. “I liked explaining my project and answering questions,” said one fourth grade participant. “It made me feel like a real scientist.”
As a program of Iowa 4-H Youth Development JSSTFI helps build Iowa’s STEM pipeline by connecting schools families and community partners while showing young students that science is for everyone.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-poike
Categories: Iowa, Education