Students place first at Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science State meeting

PJAS Competition Winners

Three Seneca Valley students returned with first-place awards after presenting their research projects at the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) State Meeting held at Penn State University on May 20.

Sophomore Autumn Zacherl and junior Addison McLane earned a first-place award, and senior Abby Bonno won a first-place award with a perfect score.

“I couldn’t be prouder of these three exceptional ladies in their first-place awards at the state PJAS competition,” said Ms. Kelly Weston, Seneca Valley Senior High School Advanced Placement Chemistry Teacher. “Their dedication, passion and commitment they have for their research has truly paid off and showcases their remarkable potential for their future.”

“What I have enjoyed most about PJAS is the nature of the presentation itself,” said Miss Zacherl. “Giving a formal oral presentation in front of judges and peers has given me practice with public speaking and has allowed me to understand how to use audiovisual aids (especially PowerPoint) to my advantage.”

The Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) is a statewide organization of junior and senior high school students designed to stimulate and promote interest in science among its members through the development of research projects and investigations.

Ms. Weston added, “This competition is open to any Science Honor Society member, and I hope that the number of students participating continues to grow.”