The Science Research program at Saratoga Springs City School District provides students with a unique opportunity to engage in original, college-level scientific research through mentorships with professional investigators. This three-year program guides students through the full research process. During their sophomore year, students explore topics of interest, develop research skills, and design an experimental plan. In their junior year, they collect and analyze data, and as seniors, they draw conclusions and present their findings to a variety of audiences.
Recently, thirteen Saratoga Springs High School students competed at the Regeneron Greater Capital Region Science and Engineering Fair, where more than 100 students in grades 9–12 presented original research projects. This highly competitive event serves as a qualifier for the prestigious International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), the world’s premier science competition.
Saratoga students delivered outstanding results. Senior Ava Otte earned the Grand Prize (1st Place Overall), and junior Isabella Bonitatibus received 2nd Place Overall. Both students were awarded ISEF Finalist honors and will represent Saratoga Springs High School at ISEF in Phoenix, Arizona this May, where they will compete alongside approximately 1,800 students from more than 80 countries and territories.
In addition to her second-place finish, Isabella Bonitatibus was awarded a $50,000 scholarship to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, recognizing the exceptional quality of her research.
Several students also received special awards for their work:
- Ava Otte (Grade 12) – Stockholm Water Prize, recognizing excellence in research related to water quality and environmental protection
- Isabella Bonitatibus (Grade 11) – Momentive Performance Materials Award and SI Group Smart Chemistry Award for innovative and environmentally focused research
- Rose Janicke (Grade 12) – American Society for Microbiology (Eastern New York Branch) Award
- Maxwell Vogel (Grade 12) – U.S. Metric Association Award for excellence in quantitative measurement
These achievements reflect the dedication, curiosity, and hard work of our student researchers, as well as the strength of the district’s Science Research program. We congratulate all participants and wish Ava and Isabella the best of luck as they advance to the international stage.
