Five juniors representing the Warrenton campus of Mountain Vista Governor’s School for Science, Math & Technology earned top honors at the Virginia Piedmont Regional Science Fair (VPRSF), held March 12 in Charlottesville. Every student returned with an award, marking a strong showing for the program and its student researchers.

The students’ work was guided by Mrs. Cle LaMonica, retired MVGS Physics and Research teacher, and Mrs. Stephanie Burke, retired systems engineer at Lockheed Martin, both of whom support students through the school’s independent research program.

Among the standout performances, Aubrey Marshall (MVGS and Liberty High School) earned first place in Microbiology for her project, “Feeding more families: A study of methods to delay mold growth on loaf bread.” Inspired by her experience working at a local food bank, Marshall will advance to the Virginia State Science and Engineering Fair April 10–11.

Silas Sherertz (MVGS and Liberty High School) earned second place in Engineering: Materials and Bioengineering, along with the Stockholm Junior Water Prize award. His project, “Smart floating treatment wetlands (FTW) with electro-magnetic biochar for enhanced microplastic, nutrient, heavy metal removal,” will advance to the Virginia State Stockholm Junior Water Prize competition.

In Environmental, Earth, and Planetary Sciences, Bella Seitz (MVGS and Fauquier High School) placed third with her project, “The effect of the presence of cattle on environmental quality in tree copses.”

Jaxson Norrod (MVGS and Eastern View High School) earned an Honorable Mention in the same category and received a $375 Regeneron Biomedical Science Award for his project, “Using the attractions of Lycorma delicatula (spotted lanternfly) to trap and kill.”

Natalie Ferlazzo (MVGS and Eastern View High School) also received an Honorable Mention for her project, “Transforming plastic waste into soil-enhancing compounds.”

Adding to the program’s momentum, MVGS senior Mia Heller (Kettle Run High School), last year’s VPRSF Grand Prize winner and a recipient of a special U.S. Patent and Trademark Office award at the International Science and Engineering Fair, returned this year to support younger students. Heller assisted with coaching juniors and served as a middle school judge.

Students spent months developing research questions, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and presenting findings. Beyond the technical work, participants emphasized the value of communication, collaboration, and real-world application of classroom learning.

“Aubrey Marshall reflected on her experience, noting the opportunity to connect with peers and share her research. She added that she is excited to advance to the next level of competition.”

Silas Sherertz described the experience as a meaningful opportunity to explore a passion in greater depth. Jaxson Norrod highlighted the hands-on learning process and growth in data analysis skills, while also noting a shared frustration with the invasive spotted lanternfly. Bella Seitz emphasized both research development and public speaking growth. Natalie Ferlazzo described the experience as memorable and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to conduct independent research.

The event itself added a memorable backdrop, as snow fell during the competition day—prompting students to enjoy ice cream before the awards ceremony.

Mountain Vista Governor’s School continues to emphasize independent inquiry, innovation, and STEM research opportunities for students. MVGS Director Ladona Gorham expressed strong support for the students’ accomplishments and the mentorship that helped guide their success.