Whiz Kid: John Klepeis, Science Fair Winner

John Klepeis, age 13 took First Place in the Lehigh Valley Science and Engineering Research Fair at Lehigh University in the category of physics on March 19.  

An eighth grader at in Bethlehem, Klepeis created a project testing the hypothesis “How solar cell power output is affected by different angles of incidence from the sun.” The conclusion of which was that the solar cell will produce less power the greater the angle.

With solar energy and power at the forefront of alternative energy resource research, Klepeis’ interest and understanding of complicated concepts concerning physics and solar cells may illuminate a future in power innovations.

“I’ve always had an interest in Science and it is the easiest subject for me.”  Humble and yet extremely intelligent, Klepeis was nominated by his school principal, Mrs. Annette Filler not only for his achievements in LV Science and Engineering Research Fair but also for the Honorable Mention in the category physics which he received at the 32nd Albert Einstein Science Fair in the Delaware Valley Science Fairs 2011, where he competed on April 8th with 1000’s of middle school students from the tri-state area. 

Both science fairs provide an opportunity for students to explore their full scientific potential by engaging their intellectual curiosity and creative problem solving skills in the areas Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.  Students present their scientific work to scientists within the various fields in which they are competing.

Klepeis contributes his inclination towards physics to his father, Martin Klepeis.  “I believe I got my science gene from him,” said Klepeis, “my mom is in agreement.” 

He modestly claims that his key to awesomeness is his interest in solar cells and solar energy but, his science teacher, Mrs. Fistner who has taught him since the 6th grade, says, “The sound education at St. Anne’s overshadowed by his faith and his trying to use God’s talents to the best of his ability” is his key to awesomeness.

In addition to his talents in science, Mrs. Fistner said that he was a “Very talented photographer,” He also plays the clarinet in St. Anne’s band and is an impeccable student. St. Anne School is very proud of John Klepeis for his achievements in the area of physics and for this reason he is our Whiz Kid of the week.

Know a great kid who made Eagle Scout or did your local soccer team take the championship? They may be our next Patch Whiz Kid honoree. Submit your nomination in our comment box below or e-mail the information to taramichele75@gmail.com. Be sure to include contact information.