In Their Element: Simpson Elementary Students Shine Through Project Fair

Every year, Simpson Elementary in Montesano transforms into a showcase of student curiosity. Between 90 and 110 students—about a quarter of the school—present projects they've researched, built, and perfected over months. Students are encouraged to learn for learning’s sake, choosing topics that matter to them and sharing their expertise with the community.

This month, ESD 113's Board of Directors recognized Simpson Elementary students with the In Their Element Award for their exceptional commitment to self-directed learning and academic growth.

Learning on Their Terms

The Simpson Elementary Project Fair operates on three core principles: every student can participate, students choose their own topics, and projects aren’t graded or ranked.

“Students spend a lot of time learning things that other people think are important,” said Julie Aldrich, who coordinates the event. “This is their opportunity to have full control over that.”

The approach works. Fourth-grader Ryder explored Roman gods last year. “We told about all the gods and then compared and contrasted them,” Ryder said. “That was really fun, and I learned a lot of new stuff.” Someone at the fair recommended that he read the Percy Jackson series revolving around the world of Greek mythology. He’s now read all the books! 

The variety runs deep. Students research everything from medicinal herbs to optical illusions to the history of Montesano. Some projects connect to family history, like fifth-grader Wyatt’s logging diorama that honors his father’s and grandfather’s work in the industry. Students have examined which types of water grow bacteria fastest, built working air horns, learned to play guitar, and extracted DNA from strawberries. One student completed a 30-page thesis on whether cell phones harm brains.

Building Confidence and Community

The February event draws families and community members who ask questions and engage with student work. For many students, the experience starts with nerves but transforms into excitement.

“At first I was really nervous, but once I got everything set up, I was really excited to share,” one student said. Another added, “Whenever somebody invites me to talk about something I like, I go absolutely bonkers.”

“I really like getting feedback from other people,” Ryder said. “Last year, somebody actually recommended me a book series, and now I've read them all."

“Grandparents,” Aldrich said, “ask the tricky questions” and spend real time with each project. The connections extend beyond the fair itself. Principal Chris Cady sees students develop expertise that carries into classroom lessons. When topics appear later, students connect back to projects they or their peers completed. A computer animation project from years ago still influences curriculum today.

The Project Fair strengthens bonds between students, families, and the broader Montesano community. One mother who had completed her master’s thesis on a European conflict connected with a student who had researched the same topic. She later told Aldrich the student answered every question correctly.

“I just like learning new things,” one student said simply.

The community can experience the 2026 Project Fair February 26, 6pm at Simpson Elementary. Check with the school for specific details.

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For now, this will be the last In Their Element feature as the Board of Directors transitions to a new Chair and a new initiative is selected. If you have a story about your school or district you want to share, please reach out to the ESD 113 Communications team.