GREAT BAY--The St. Maarten Science Fair Foundation (SMSFF) has announced that ten high schools have already expressed preliminary interest in participating in Science Week 2027, reflecting growing engagement in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) education. The announcement follows a successful 2026 edition that reached more than 1,200 people through science competitions, educational field trips, robotics activities, and other initiatives designed to encourage innovation among young people.
Science Week 2027 is scheduled for March 8 to 13, with the awards ceremony set for March 20. The event will be held under the themeTurning Curiosity into Change, supported by the subthemeYoung Minds. Bold Ideas. A Better Future.
According to the Foundation, schools have expressed interest in several activities, including the art competition, National Science Fair, STEAM field trips, robotics program, and the planned Science Ambassador Program. The preliminary interest from ten schools provides an encouraging indication of participation as preparations continue for next year's activities.
The announcement was made during the Foundation's Sponsor Appreciation Happy Hour on Thursday, October 29, which brought together supporters and contributors to recognize their involvement in Science Week 2026. The gathering included a presentation highlighting the impact of sponsor contributions, followed by an awards ceremony acknowledging the businesses and organizations that helped make the event possible.
“The growth we are seeing, from the introduction of new programs to increasing school participation, demonstrates that our mission to inspire interest in STEAM and innovation is making an impact. We are deeply grateful to every sponsor, participating school, business, volunteer, student, and parent. None of this would be possible without their support, and we look forward to what 2027 will bring,” said Dr. Rolinda Carter, President.
Science Week 2026, held from March 9 to 21, recorded several achievements across its educational activities. The National Science Fair attracted more than 700 visitors, including over 500 primary school students, along with visitors from St. Eustatius, Saint Martin, Anguilla, and the United States. A total of 47 students presented 26 projects, demonstrating their scientific knowledge, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.
The Foundation's STEAM field trips also recorded increased participation, with 61 students from six schools visiting seven host organizations. This represented a 15 percent increase over 2025, providing students with additional opportunities to explore the practical applications of science and technology outside the classroom.
Robotics was another area of achievement, with the SXM Tech Tides team securing second place and two special awards at a regional robotics challenge in St. Kitts. The results highlighted the opportunities available to students through exposure to technical education, competitions, and regional collaboration.
The Foundation also acknowledged Foresee Foundation for its donation of robotics kits and accessories following Science Week 2026, contributing additional resources to support the continued development of robotics education.
During the appreciation event, special recognition was extended to the Foundation's Elite sponsors, BTP, NAGICO Insurances, and The Setai St. Maarten, along with its Gold, Silver, and Bronze sponsors. Their contributions helped facilitate the educational activities, student participation, and organizational requirements associated with Science Week.
The Foundation also recognized several community partners and contributors, including Aleeze Convention Center, Anguilla Robotics Association, Islandpreneur, Marine Management & Consulting, Meteorological Department St. Maarten, Philipsburg Broadcasting, SLS, The Druggist St. Maarten, and TRAKX.
Participating schools, teachers, mentors, parents, and volunteers were also acknowledged for their contributions to the event's success.
The full list of Science Week 2026 sponsors includes:
Elite Sponsors:BTP, NAGICO Insurances, and The Setai St. Maarten.
Gold Sponsors:AUC, Driven Media, Foresee Foundation, GEBE, SZV, Tropical Shipping, UNESCO St. Maarten, and WIB.
Silver Sponsors:APS, Dynaf, Grant Thornton, HBN Law & Tax, Hill's Event Hall, ICE, Port of St. Maarten Group, Simpson Bay Resort, Smart Electronics, SMMC, The Park Foundation, and Viva Signs.
Bronze Sponsors:Caribbean Palms, Compass Insurances, IGY Marinas, Klass Electronics, and SOL.
Established in 1994, the St. Maarten Science Fair Foundation has spent more than three decades encouraging young people to explore science and technology through educational programs and practical learning experiences. Its activities include the National Science Fair, STEAM field trips, and robotics initiatives designed to stimulate curiosity, innovation, and interest in careers related to science and technology.
With preparations for 2027 underway, the Foundation aims to build on the participation and achievements of previous years while continuing to provide opportunities for students to develop their talents, explore new ideas, and apply their knowledge to real-world challenges.
The Foundation can be followed on Facebook and Instagram at @sxm_sciencefairfoundation for further information and updates.
