Virginia Students Win Big at State Science Research Event

Students from Prince William County Public Schools brought home awards in nearly every scientific field at the Virginia Junior Academy of Science Research Symposium, proving that groundbreaking research isn't just for university labs.

The annual statewide competition brings together Virginia's brightest young minds to present original research they designed and conducted themselves. This year, PWCS students earned recognition across 10 different scientific disciplines, from engineering and mathematics to environmental science and microbiology.

Sajeela Ahmad from Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School took first place in botany, while teammates Lauren Obeng and Ruth Seyefe from Osbourn Park High School joined her on the podium. Their plant science research also earned them the special VAS Botany Award.

Middle school students proved they could compete with anyone. Sarmed Ahmad from Benton Middle School won first place in plant science, while his schoolmate Hazeem Ahmad secured second place in engineering and technology.

The honors extended beyond student achievements. Theresa Szabo-Maas, a biology teacher at Osbourn Park High School, received the Franklin D. Kizer Science Teacher of Tomorrow Award for her dedication to nurturing young scientists.

The symposium does more than hand out trophies. It connects students with STEM professionals and fellow researchers, creating a community where scientific curiosity thrives and young people see themselves as real contributors to their fields.

The Ripple Effect

These wins represent hundreds of hours of investigation, experimentation, and problem-solving by students who chose to spend their time exploring questions that fascinated them. When middle schoolers see peers just a few years older winning state competitions, they realize scientific achievement is within their reach too.

The recognition also shines a light on schools investing in research opportunities that most students never get until college. Programs like The Governor's School at Innovation Park, which multiple winners attended, provide lab equipment, mentorship, and the freedom to pursue ambitious projects.

PWCS graduate Rania Lateef received the VAS Award for Dedicated Service to VJAS, showing how student researchers often become lifelong advocates for science education. Her continued involvement demonstrates that these early research experiences can spark careers spent advancing scientific knowledge and inspiring the next generation.

Virginia's young scientists are asking big questions and finding real answers, one experiment at a time.