News / Press

ACES Chase Academy to Host Two STEAM-Focused Expos Celebrating Student Innovation

(Hamden, CT –January 21, 2026) - ACES Chase Academy in Waterbury is excited to welcome families, educators, community partners, and supporters to two engaging, STEAM-focused expos that will showcase the innovative work of students across multiple grade levels. As part of the school’s commitment to project-based learning, these events taking place in January and February highlight students' creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills as they tackle real-world challenges through science, engineering, and invention.

On Monday, January 26, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m., the Grade 7 & High School Science and Engineering Expo will take place at the ACES Chase Academy Theater (snow date: Friday, January 30). Seventh-grade students, along with select high school participants, will present original science and engineering projects developed in alignment with the Connecticut Science & Engineering Fair (CSEF). CSEF is a statewide competition that encourages students in grades 7–12 to pursue independent research and STEM exploration. Students will present projects at various stages from early question development to initial experimental design and may be considered for submission to the statewide competition later this spring. Their work will also be featured during ACES Chase Academy’s annual STEAM Night on April 23rd.

Then, on Tuesday, February 24, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. (snow date Friday, February 27), the Grade 6 Connecticut Invention Convention Expo will offer a platform for sixth-grade students to present their original inventions. As part of their year-long STEAM Expeditions coursework, students have been developing solutions to real-world problems through the Connecticut Invention Convention (CIC). This internationally recognized program fosters innovation and entrepreneurship in youth. Projects range from early-stage concepts to fully developed prototypes, with select inventions eligible for statewide recognition in the spring and inclusion in the April STEAM Night.

“These expos are more than just a showcase of student work; they are celebrations of creativity, perseverance, and the problem-solving mindset that we nurture every day at Chase,” said Dr. Frank LaBanca, Principal of ACES Chase Academy. “When students identify challenges that matter to them and use STEAM skills to develop solutions, they gain the confidence and capability to be tomorrow’s innovators.”

Dr. Thomas M. Danehy, Executive Director of ACES, added, “Events like these embody the mission of ACES, empowering students to think critically, solve complex problems, and take ownership of their learning. We are proud to support Chase Academy’s commitment to cultivating innovation and student voice through experiential education.”

Visitors are encouraged to stop by at any point during the event windows, engage with students, ask questions about their process and ideas, and see firsthand how ACES Chase Academy is cultivating the next generation of thinkers, makers, and leaders. All are welcome to attend, and no RSVP is required.

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About ACES:

Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is the regional educational service center for New Haven and parts of Middlesex and Fairfield Counties. ACES serves school districts through innovative programs and services that meet the needs of a changing educational landscape. ACES operates magnet, special education, and alternative schools, as well as providing a wide range of educational services, including professional development, transportation, translation, and adult vocational programs. Learn more at www.aces.org.