Virginia Piedmont Regional Science Fair Relocates to North Fork
For those in middle and high school, it's never too early to start learning about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
The annual Virginia Piedmont Regional Science Fair (VPRSF) offers a chance for students in grades 6-12 from the Virginia Piedmont region to use STEM projects as a fun way to showcase their curiosity and innovations.
This year, the VPRSF will be held on Saturday, March 5, 2022. The competition will feature projects from students representing Albemarle, Culpeper, Fluvanna, Greene, King George, Louisa, Madison, Nelson, Orange, Rappahannock, Spotsylvania, Fauquier, and Stafford counties.
"Because of our partnership with North Fork and its commitment to STEM education, we were able to waive our registration fees for the first time in over 20 years."
The fair was held at John Paul Jones Arena for 13 years until organizers decided to go virtual in 2021 due to the pandemic. This year, the fair will take place in person at North Fork, the University of Virginia's discovery park in northern Albemarle County.
Given North Fork’s mission to support UVA’s academic and research activities, promoting science education and innovation in the community makes hosting the science fair a natural fit. The fair provides an excellent opportunity for middle and high school students to gain experience in presenting their ideas and exploring future opportunities as future scientists, teachers, and engineers.
About VPRSF
The VPRSF is a 501(c)3 non-profit volunteer organization affiliated with the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair. Much more than a competition, the fair aims to be an educational and motivating experience for students who have already begun to show serious interest in science and engineering. Organizers expect approximately 200 students representing more than thirty different schools from over a dozen school divisions to compete. Two Senior Division "Grand Award Winners" will win expense-paid trips to the Regeneron International Science & Engineering Fair in Atlanta, GA, this May, where students compete for over $3 million in awards and scholarships. Each division will award additional prizes, with over 100 special awards presented by more than 30 sponsoring organizations.
"Because of our partnership with North Fork and their commitment to STEM education, we were able to waive our registration fees for the first time in over 20 years," VPRSF Director Adrian Felts. "Additionally, North Fork will underwrite the $100 Discovery Awards granted to the teachers of all students who place 1st in their category. These offerings enable us to highlight not only the work of the students but also the splendid mentorship of the teachers."
Registration for students, teachers, and judges interested in participating in the fair opened on January 1, 2022. Participants may find full details at www.vprsf.org.
