Science Fair to Honor Memory of Goddard Educator

will hold an honorary science fair Saturday in memory of , a Pre-K teacher who died last year.

More than 35 Pre-K and Kindergarten student science projects will be showcased at the event and judged by community leaders based on creativity, originality, research and presentation. The younger children up to the age of 3 years will honor "Ms. Jane" by showcasing their masterpieces in an art exhibition.

Matthews, the founder of the school's annual science fair, was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer and died March 21 of last year at the age of 51.

“She was a very strong educator and very much loved,” said Kavitha Erathara, franchisee of the Goddard School in Kennesaw. “I visited her every day in the hospital, and every time I had 100 or 200 get well cards for her.”

Matthews spent 20 years at the school. Her death was felt throughout the community, with many feeling as though they had “lost a grandmother,” said Erathara. Goddard parents raised $8,000 to cover the funeral expenses of Matthews, who had no life insurance.

Before her passing, Matthews asked that a bench be placed outside her classroom so she could continue to keep watch over her students.

Matthews' husband, mother, sisters and brothers will be on hand to present awards at the end of the science fair. 

What: Goddard School of Kennesaw Annual Jane Matthews Science Fair

When: Saturday, March 24, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Where: The Goddard School, 3190 Blue Springs Rd. in Kennesaw.