D86 celebrates 15 years of student discovery in Science Inquiry and Research (SIR)

For the past 15 summers, hundreds of students from Hinsdale Central and Hinsdale South have dedicated their summers to Science Inquiry and Research (SIR) Honors, one of District 86’s most innovative and challenging academic programs.

This year, 89 students took part in projects ranging from studying microplastic contamination in local water sources to testing the effectiveness of natural remedies compared with synthetic antibiotics. Others engineered low-cost prosthetic devices or analyzed how climate change affects pollinator populations, showcasing the creativity and curiosity that drive the program’s success.

“The SIR program gives our students an opportunity to experience science the way professionals do,” said Mark Wollschlaeger, a Hinsdale Central science teacher who has been teaching the course since it launched in District 86 in 2010. “They’re not just memorizing facts–they’re asking their own questions, designing experiments, analyzing data and sharing their results with real audiences. Those skills build confidence, prepare them for college and careers, and show them that their ideas can make an impact.”

SIR has produced work that goes far beyond school hallways. Student projects have been published in nationally recognized science journals and magazines, and some participants have earned recognition in prestigious competitions–including eligibility for the Regeneron Science Talent Search, the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science and math competition for high school students. Many students also receive letters of recommendation from university scientists they work with through the program–which can make a positive impact in the college admissions process.

“My experience in the SIR course has been really helpful in teaching me about the research aspect of a medical career, something that you’ll do a lot during college and medical school,” Hinsdale Central student Hillary Sun said.” I initially took this course to gain some research experience because my schedule didn’t allow me to take AP Research during the school year, but this year especially, I’ve seen the benefits of having more time to work in the summer independently. Ultimately, this extra time allowed me to get 2 of my papers published.”

Her classmate, Nabeeha Salahuddin, added that taking the course has been a valuable addition to her high school experience.

“Through the progression of the course, I'm able to build relationships with professionals in the science and medical field and learn valuable research skills, which help me to stand out in college admissions,” Salahuddin said. “It allows me to get my foot in the door right in my high school years.”

SIR is available to current students who are either enrolled in an honors-level science course, or receive a recommendation from a teacher. The course is also open to rising freshmen who will be enrolled in an honors science course. SIRS is structured in three levels: Year 1 introduces students to research design and communication; while Years 2 and 3 pair students with professional mentors at labs, universities and corporations, culminating in public presentations.

The SIR framework allows students to conduct authentic investigations, collaborate with peers and professionals, and develop communication skills that prepare them for future academic and professional work. As the program marks its 15th year, it continues to grow as a launchpad for students interested in pursuing careers in science, medicine, engineering and beyond.