AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN STUDENT RESEARCH
Students who present papers at the Symposium are eligible to win awards and scholarships .
A. SECTION AWARDS
Description: Certificates are given for the best student research papers presented in competition at the annual VJAS Symposium. Certificates for First, Second, Third, and up to three (3) Honorable Mention Places may be awarded in each of the following categories.
Categories:
Middle School (Grades 7 and 8)
Procedures: Papers chosen for presentation will be judged in the sections of each category by the section judges. These judges will evaluate both the research paper and the oral presentation of the research at the research symposium for the final selection of First, Second, Third, and Honorable Mention winners. The decision of these judges is final. Please note that students/teachers/sponsors/parents or anyone else may not contact the judges before, during, and after the Research Symposium, or disqualification will occur.
Criteria: The criteria for these awards appear as the points considered by the judges on the Judge’s Evaluation Form.
B. BEST OF CATEGORY AWARDS
These awards are given to the best project in certain categories. If there are multiple sections, the VJAS Chair and/or the VJAS Director have the right to decide whether a) the two (or more) section judges meet together and decide on one final project for the Best of Category Award OR b) receive all first-place papers from sections and let the Honor Awards Committee/Judges decide the winning project for the Best of Category Award.
ANN M. HANCOCK CELLULAR BIOLOGY AWARD
Description: Given to the best paper in cellular biology. This award is given in memory of Ann Hancock, who retired from the Hanover County Public Schools.
Procedure: The section judges of Microbiology and Cell Biology will select the best Cellular Biology paper to receive this award.
MATHEMATICS AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in mathematics.
Procedure: The section judges of Mathematics: Theoretical & Modeling will select the best Mathematics paper to receive this award.
PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in astronomy or physics.
Procedure: The section judges of Physics and Astronomy will select the best Physics or Astronomy paper(s).
RODNEY C. BERRY CHEMISTRY AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in the field of chemistry.
Procedure: The section judges of Chemistry will select the best Chemistry paper to receive this award.
STATISTICS AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in statistics.
Procedure: The section judges of Statistical Analysis & Inferences will select the best Statistics paper to receive this award.
VABE ZOOLOGY AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in Zoology. The Virginia Association of Biological Educators supports this award.
Procedure: The section judges of Zoology will select the best Zoology paper to receive this award.
VAS BOTANY AWARD
Description: Given by the Botany Section of the VAS for outstanding research presented in a Botany section of the VJAS.
Procedure: The section judges of Botany will select the best Botany paper to receive this award.
VIRGINIA PENINSULA ENGINEERS ENGINEERING AWARD
Description: A certificate is given for the best paper in the field of Engineering by the Virginia Peninsula Engineers.
Procedure: The section judges of Engineering will select the best Engineering paper to receive this award.
C. SPECIAL INTEREST AWARDS
Special Interest Awards must be applied for before the VJAS Research Symposium. Only papers accepted for presentation are eligible, so students must wait until notified of acceptance before applying. Application is made by submitting a Special Interest Award form available on the Reviewr platform by the Symposium registration date. Follow the instructions on the form and those below carefully.
Note: If no qualified papers meeting the standards of the award(s) are received, it (they) will not be given.
Directions for submitting Special Interest Award applications:
CANCER RESEARCH AWARD
Description: Given by the American Cancer Society for outstanding research relevant to cancer studies based on the written paper
Procedure: Selection of the winning papers is made by the Cancer Research Award judges based on the written paper
GAMMA SIGMA DELTA AWARD
Virginia Tech Chapter of the Honor Society of Agriculture
Description: Given to a student in recognition of excellence in research dealing with the application of new technologies and/or concepts in agriculture, forestry, or veterinary medicine.
Procedure: The winning paper is selected by the Gamma Sigma Delta Award judges based on the written paper.
DR. AND MRS. PRESTON H. LEAKE AWARD IN APPLIED CHEMISTRY
Description: Given to the paper that shows in some way how chemicals, chemical principles, or chemistry have been used or might be used to enhance or even save lives - ways chemistry may be used to provide better things for better living.
Procedure: The selection of the winning paper is made by the Dr. and Mrs. Preston H. Leake Award in Applied Chemistry judges based on the written paper
ROSCOE HUGHES GENETICS AWARD
Description: Given to an outstanding paper in the field of Genetics. It is given in memory of Dr. Roscoe D. Hughes , who formed the “Department of Biology and Genetics” in 1938 in the Medical College of Virginia’s School of Pharmacy, later to become part of VCU. In the 1960s, the Virginia Academy of Sciences, led by Dr. Hughes, vigorously lobbied the Governor and the General Assembly to establish the Science Museum of Virginia finally.
Procedure: The selection of the winning papers is made by the Roscoe Hughes Genetics Award judges based on the written paper.
SMITH SHADOMY INFECTIOUS DISEASES AWARD
Description: Given to commemorate Dr. Smith Shadomy by the Virginia Chapter of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases to the paper that evidences outstanding research in the field of infectious diseases.
Procedure: The selection of the winning paper is made by the Infectious Disease Award judges based on the written paper.
SPELEOLOGICAL SOCIETY AWARD
Description: Given by the Richmond Area Speleological Society for outstanding research addressing karst or topics related to speleology (bats, caves, carbonate geology, paleoenvironments, limestone fossils, sinkholes, etc.).
Procedure: The selection of the winning paper is made by the Speleology Society Award judges based on the written paper.
VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY (VMNH) AWARD
Description: Presented by VMNH in recognition of significant contributions in the study and interpretation of Virginia’s natural heritage.
Procedures: The winning paper is selected by a representative of the Friends of the VMNH based on the written paper.
VIRGINIA SEA GRANT COLLEGE PROGRAM AWARD
Description: Given by the Virginia Sea Grant College Program for outstanding marine or coastal research.
Procedure: The winning paper is selected by the Virginia Sea Grant College Program Award judges based on the written paper.
D. VJAS HONOR AWARDS
These are the highest awards for the Virginia Junior Academy of Science. Special panels of honor judges evaluate the projects and determine the awards. Criteria for selection include:
Middle School Honor Awards for the Best Projects
DOROTHY KNOWLTON AWARD
Description: Given to the middle school student or team presenting the best project in the life and earth sciences. This is given in honor of Dorothy Knowlton, the former Science Coordinator of Arlington County, who was instrumental in advancing experimental design with the science curriculum.
Procedures: A panel of honor judges selects the winner from among the first-place projects in the Animal and Human Sciences, Ecology and Earth Science, Human Behavior, Plant Science, and Microbiology middle school sections. The winner(s) is (are) given a certificate(s).
JOYCE K PETERSON AWARD
Description: Given to the middle school student or team presenting the best project in the physical sciences. This is given in honor of Joyce Peterson, an outstanding teacher in the Arlington County Schools.
Procedures: A panel of honor judges selects the winner from among the first-place projects in the Chemical Science, Engineering & Technology, and Physical Science & Astronomy middle school sections. The winner(s) is (are) given a certificate(s).
High School Honor Awards for Best Projects
JONES/ELLETT AWARD, Grade 12
Description: Given to the individual senior (12th grade) student presenting the best project.
Procedures: A panel of honor judges selects the winner from among the seniors (12th graders) who placed first in a high school section. The winner is given a certificate.
Criteria:
VJAS DELEGATES TO AJAS, GRADES 9-11
Description: The top four research projects by individual or team student projects in grades 9-11.
Procedures: A panel of honor judges selects the honorees from among the students (grades 9-11) who won first place in a senior high section. The winner is the first ranked project. Alternates are the second, third, and fourth ranked projects.
Attendance at American Junior Academy of Science (AJAS): Winners are given a certificate and an invitation to represent VJAS at the annual meeting of the American Junior Academy of Science (AJAS) and to present at a poster session. Students who represent the Commonwealth of Virginia must attend all activities and house with the students (if applicable).
When VJAS/VAS finances permit, cash awards are given to each individual or a team to help defray expenses. The cash award will be the same for an individual or team, so if a team is selected, they need to determine who will represent the team or provide local funding for the other team members. The top four papers are ranked by the judges, and VAS/VJAS will provide cash awards in this order when VAS/VJAS finances permit. VAS/VJAS will attempt to fully cover the winner’s expenses, followed by the alternates.
ERTLE THOMPSON MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT AWARD, Grades 9-11
Description: The Ertle Thompson Memorial Endowment Award is established to honor Dr. Ertle Thompson, a long-term leader of VJAS and a former president of the VAS. When financial circumstances allow, these awards will be presented annually to the winner(s) selected as the VJAS Delegate(s) to the AJAS. The purpose of the funds is to help support attendance at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the American Junior Academy of Science.
Procedure: The winning students selected as the VJAS Delegates to the VJAS will also receive this award. If a student does not attend AJAS, then it will be transferred to another student.
VJAS GRAND HIGH SCHOOL AWARD, Grades 9-12
Description: The top research project by an individual or team of students in grades 9-12.
Procedure: A special panel of judges selects the winner from among the first place winners of all senior high sections. The winner is given a certificate(s).
Award for Student’s School Sponsor
DR. R. DEAN DECKER HONORARIUM AWARD
Description: The Dr. R. Dean Decker Honorarium award of $500 each will go to the teacher/sponsor of the two top student winners of the VAS Best Research Award. The monies can be used at the recipients' discretion as long as it is related to the attendance at the AJAS meeting. Guidelines and procedures for the recipients will follow later.
Procedure: The teacher/sponsor of students who receive the VAS Best Research Awards will receive this award.
Award for Outstanding Service by Students
VIRGINIA ACADEMY OF SCIENCE HONORARY MEMBERSHIP
Description: A certificate and one year’s membership, without cost, in the Virginia Academy of Science, including a subscription to the Virginia Journal of Science, will be awarded.
Procedure: A club sponsor, any VJAS Committee member, or a member of the VAS may make Nominations. Nominations and supporting materials will be sent to the VJAS Director before the Research Symposium. The award is based upon one or more of the following criteria. The VJAS Committee selects the winner(s).
Criteria:
The Franklin D. Kizer Science Teacher of Tomorrow Award
This award recognizes an outstanding Virginia science teacher and provides an opportunity for professional development through attendance at the annual VAST meeting.
Criteria:
The Franklin D. Kizer Fund Distinguished Service Award in Honor of E. C. L. Miller
This award recognizes the exceptional contributions to VJAS of a STEM teacher.
Criteria:
The Franklin D. Kizer Professional Development Stipend
This award will be presented to a teacher of the VJAS Best Research Paper Award winner.
Criteria:
VJAS DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
Description: A special certificate is presented to a person for exceptionally outstanding service to the VJAS, and public recognition is given at the Research Symposium. This is the most prestigious award that the VJAS gives.
Procedure: The selection of the person or persons to receive this award is the responsibility of the VJAS Committee, and recommendations may be made at any of the regular committee meetings. One or more may be chosen in any year, but it is expected that the giving of this award will not be an annual event.
Criteria: No set criteria are described. The award is given only when the time of service devoted to the VJAS and its aims is deemed exceptionally outstanding and distinguished.
VAS AWARD FOR DEDICATED SERVICE TO VJAS
Description: Highest service award of the Junior Academy. This award recognizes a past VJAS officer or VJAS member who has continued to provide support as a volunteer to the Junior Academy even after high school completion.
Procedure: The selection of the person or persons to receive this award is the responsibility of the VJAS Committee, and recommendations may be made at any of the regular committee meetings. One or more may be chosen in any year, but it is expected that the giving of this award will not be an annual event.
Criteria: No set criteria are described. The award is given only when recognition is deserved through outstanding and distinguished support.
VAS Franklin D. Kizer Teacher Development Fund Awards
The following three VAS-VJAS awards are supported by the Franklin D. Kizer Fund. The purpose of the Fund is to develop and encourage Virginia Science Teachers. The Fund was established by Art Burke and Virginia Ellett in honor of “Doc” Kizer, past State Science Superintendent, Virginia Department of Education, and first President (1952-53) of the Virginia Association of Science Teachers. Its corpus was derived from a transfer of funds to the Academy that constituted the remainder of monies used for the annual state science teachers’ conference when that conference ceased. VAS members Frank Kizer, Art Burke, and Virginia Ellett were among that conference’s leaders and coordinators. An individual may not receive each of the following awards more than once.
It is not required that any of the following awards be made each year.
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD
Description: This award is given to an individual or individuals on the VJAS Committee based on the number of volunteer hours donated. The award is between $500-$1000, with up to two awards that could be given in a year.
Procedure: The award is given at the discretion of the VJAS Director.
Criteria: No set criteria are described. The award is given only when recognition is deserved through outstanding and distinguished support.
A. SECTION AWARDS
Description: Certificates are given for the best student research papers presented in competition at the annual VJAS Symposium. Certificates for First, Second, Third, and up to three (3) Honorable Mention Places may be awarded in each of the following categories.
Categories:
Middle School (Grades 7 and 8)
- Animal & Human Sciences
- Chemical Science
- Ecology & Earth Sciences
- Engineering & Technology
- Human Behavior
- Mathematics: Patterns & Relationships
- Physical Science & Astronomy
- Plant Science & Microbiology
- Botany
- Chemistry
- Computational Biology
- Engineering
- Environmental & Earth Science
- Mathematics: Theoretical & Modeling
- Medicine & Health
- Microbiology & Cell Biology
- Physics & Astronomy
- Psychology
- Statistical Analysis & Inferences
- Zoology
Procedures: Papers chosen for presentation will be judged in the sections of each category by the section judges. These judges will evaluate both the research paper and the oral presentation of the research at the research symposium for the final selection of First, Second, Third, and Honorable Mention winners. The decision of these judges is final. Please note that students/teachers/sponsors/parents or anyone else may not contact the judges before, during, and after the Research Symposium, or disqualification will occur.
Criteria: The criteria for these awards appear as the points considered by the judges on the Judge’s Evaluation Form.
B. BEST OF CATEGORY AWARDS
These awards are given to the best project in certain categories. If there are multiple sections, the VJAS Chair and/or the VJAS Director have the right to decide whether a) the two (or more) section judges meet together and decide on one final project for the Best of Category Award OR b) receive all first-place papers from sections and let the Honor Awards Committee/Judges decide the winning project for the Best of Category Award.
ANN M. HANCOCK CELLULAR BIOLOGY AWARD
Description: Given to the best paper in cellular biology. This award is given in memory of Ann Hancock, who retired from the Hanover County Public Schools.
Procedure: The section judges of Microbiology and Cell Biology will select the best Cellular Biology paper to receive this award.
MATHEMATICS AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in mathematics.
Procedure: The section judges of Mathematics: Theoretical & Modeling will select the best Mathematics paper to receive this award.
PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in astronomy or physics.
Procedure: The section judges of Physics and Astronomy will select the best Physics or Astronomy paper(s).
RODNEY C. BERRY CHEMISTRY AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in the field of chemistry.
Procedure: The section judges of Chemistry will select the best Chemistry paper to receive this award.
STATISTICS AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in statistics.
Procedure: The section judges of Statistical Analysis & Inferences will select the best Statistics paper to receive this award.
VABE ZOOLOGY AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in Zoology. The Virginia Association of Biological Educators supports this award.
Procedure: The section judges of Zoology will select the best Zoology paper to receive this award.
VAS BOTANY AWARD
Description: Given by the Botany Section of the VAS for outstanding research presented in a Botany section of the VJAS.
Procedure: The section judges of Botany will select the best Botany paper to receive this award.
VIRGINIA PENINSULA ENGINEERS ENGINEERING AWARD
Description: A certificate is given for the best paper in the field of Engineering by the Virginia Peninsula Engineers.
Procedure: The section judges of Engineering will select the best Engineering paper to receive this award.
C. SPECIAL INTEREST AWARDS
Special Interest Awards must be applied for before the VJAS Research Symposium. Only papers accepted for presentation are eligible, so students must wait until notified of acceptance before applying. Application is made by submitting a Special Interest Award form available on the Reviewr platform by the Symposium registration date. Follow the instructions on the form and those below carefully.
Note: If no qualified papers meeting the standards of the award(s) are received, it (they) will not be given.
Directions for submitting Special Interest Award applications:
- Application is made by submitting a Special Interest Award form available on the Reviewr platform after acceptance to the Symposium. Applications must be received by February 23.
CANCER RESEARCH AWARD
Description: Given by the American Cancer Society for outstanding research relevant to cancer studies based on the written paper
Procedure: Selection of the winning papers is made by the Cancer Research Award judges based on the written paper
GAMMA SIGMA DELTA AWARD
Virginia Tech Chapter of the Honor Society of Agriculture
Description: Given to a student in recognition of excellence in research dealing with the application of new technologies and/or concepts in agriculture, forestry, or veterinary medicine.
Procedure: The winning paper is selected by the Gamma Sigma Delta Award judges based on the written paper.
DR. AND MRS. PRESTON H. LEAKE AWARD IN APPLIED CHEMISTRY
Description: Given to the paper that shows in some way how chemicals, chemical principles, or chemistry have been used or might be used to enhance or even save lives - ways chemistry may be used to provide better things for better living.
Procedure: The selection of the winning paper is made by the Dr. and Mrs. Preston H. Leake Award in Applied Chemistry judges based on the written paper
ROSCOE HUGHES GENETICS AWARD
Description: Given to an outstanding paper in the field of Genetics. It is given in memory of Dr. Roscoe D. Hughes , who formed the “Department of Biology and Genetics” in 1938 in the Medical College of Virginia’s School of Pharmacy, later to become part of VCU. In the 1960s, the Virginia Academy of Sciences, led by Dr. Hughes, vigorously lobbied the Governor and the General Assembly to establish the Science Museum of Virginia finally.
Procedure: The selection of the winning papers is made by the Roscoe Hughes Genetics Award judges based on the written paper.
SMITH SHADOMY INFECTIOUS DISEASES AWARD
Description: Given to commemorate Dr. Smith Shadomy by the Virginia Chapter of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases to the paper that evidences outstanding research in the field of infectious diseases.
Procedure: The selection of the winning paper is made by the Infectious Disease Award judges based on the written paper.
SPELEOLOGICAL SOCIETY AWARD
Description: Given by the Richmond Area Speleological Society for outstanding research addressing karst or topics related to speleology (bats, caves, carbonate geology, paleoenvironments, limestone fossils, sinkholes, etc.).
Procedure: The selection of the winning paper is made by the Speleology Society Award judges based on the written paper.
VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY (VMNH) AWARD
Description: Presented by VMNH in recognition of significant contributions in the study and interpretation of Virginia’s natural heritage.
Procedures: The winning paper is selected by a representative of the Friends of the VMNH based on the written paper.
VIRGINIA SEA GRANT COLLEGE PROGRAM AWARD
Description: Given by the Virginia Sea Grant College Program for outstanding marine or coastal research.
Procedure: The winning paper is selected by the Virginia Sea Grant College Program Award judges based on the written paper.
D. VJAS HONOR AWARDS
These are the highest awards for the Virginia Junior Academy of Science. Special panels of honor judges evaluate the projects and determine the awards. Criteria for selection include:
- Uses accepted practices and reporting procedures for the sciences, mathematics, or engineering/technology;
- Addresses a valid question based on a strong understanding of STEM concepts (middle school) and/or makes a significant scientific contribution, basic or applied (high school);
- Shows originality and creativity;
- Thorough project which is well-planned, implemented and articulated;
- Strong evidence of high-quality, independent work;
- Superior project for age, educational background, work environment and/or in relation to other projects.
Middle School Honor Awards for the Best Projects
DOROTHY KNOWLTON AWARD
Description: Given to the middle school student or team presenting the best project in the life and earth sciences. This is given in honor of Dorothy Knowlton, the former Science Coordinator of Arlington County, who was instrumental in advancing experimental design with the science curriculum.
Procedures: A panel of honor judges selects the winner from among the first-place projects in the Animal and Human Sciences, Ecology and Earth Science, Human Behavior, Plant Science, and Microbiology middle school sections. The winner(s) is (are) given a certificate(s).
JOYCE K PETERSON AWARD
Description: Given to the middle school student or team presenting the best project in the physical sciences. This is given in honor of Joyce Peterson, an outstanding teacher in the Arlington County Schools.
Procedures: A panel of honor judges selects the winner from among the first-place projects in the Chemical Science, Engineering & Technology, and Physical Science & Astronomy middle school sections. The winner(s) is (are) given a certificate(s).
High School Honor Awards for Best Projects
JONES/ELLETT AWARD, Grade 12
Description: Given to the individual senior (12th grade) student presenting the best project.
Procedures: A panel of honor judges selects the winner from among the seniors (12th graders) who placed first in a high school section. The winner is given a certificate.
Criteria:
- Significant scientific contribution, basic or applied.
- The originality of thought.
- Independent student effort.
VJAS DELEGATES TO AJAS, GRADES 9-11
Description: The top four research projects by individual or team student projects in grades 9-11.
Procedures: A panel of honor judges selects the honorees from among the students (grades 9-11) who won first place in a senior high section. The winner is the first ranked project. Alternates are the second, third, and fourth ranked projects.
Attendance at American Junior Academy of Science (AJAS): Winners are given a certificate and an invitation to represent VJAS at the annual meeting of the American Junior Academy of Science (AJAS) and to present at a poster session. Students who represent the Commonwealth of Virginia must attend all activities and house with the students (if applicable).
When VJAS/VAS finances permit, cash awards are given to each individual or a team to help defray expenses. The cash award will be the same for an individual or team, so if a team is selected, they need to determine who will represent the team or provide local funding for the other team members. The top four papers are ranked by the judges, and VAS/VJAS will provide cash awards in this order when VAS/VJAS finances permit. VAS/VJAS will attempt to fully cover the winner’s expenses, followed by the alternates.
ERTLE THOMPSON MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT AWARD, Grades 9-11
Description: The Ertle Thompson Memorial Endowment Award is established to honor Dr. Ertle Thompson, a long-term leader of VJAS and a former president of the VAS. When financial circumstances allow, these awards will be presented annually to the winner(s) selected as the VJAS Delegate(s) to the AJAS. The purpose of the funds is to help support attendance at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the American Junior Academy of Science.
Procedure: The winning students selected as the VJAS Delegates to the VJAS will also receive this award. If a student does not attend AJAS, then it will be transferred to another student.
VJAS GRAND HIGH SCHOOL AWARD, Grades 9-12
Description: The top research project by an individual or team of students in grades 9-12.
Procedure: A special panel of judges selects the winner from among the first place winners of all senior high sections. The winner is given a certificate(s).
Award for Student’s School Sponsor
DR. R. DEAN DECKER HONORARIUM AWARD
Description: The Dr. R. Dean Decker Honorarium award of $500 each will go to the teacher/sponsor of the two top student winners of the VAS Best Research Award. The monies can be used at the recipients' discretion as long as it is related to the attendance at the AJAS meeting. Guidelines and procedures for the recipients will follow later.
Procedure: The teacher/sponsor of students who receive the VAS Best Research Awards will receive this award.
Award for Outstanding Service by Students
VIRGINIA ACADEMY OF SCIENCE HONORARY MEMBERSHIP
Description: A certificate and one year’s membership, without cost, in the Virginia Academy of Science, including a subscription to the Virginia Journal of Science, will be awarded.
Procedure: A club sponsor, any VJAS Committee member, or a member of the VAS may make Nominations. Nominations and supporting materials will be sent to the VJAS Director before the Research Symposium. The award is based upon one or more of the following criteria. The VJAS Committee selects the winner(s).
Criteria:
- Serving as an officer of the VJAS.
- Working in a commendable manner for a local or state VJAS activity.
- Dedication to being a good VJAS member as exhibited by assistance in such activities at the Research Symposium as registration, balloting, and program planning.
The Franklin D. Kizer Science Teacher of Tomorrow Award
This award recognizes an outstanding Virginia science teacher and provides an opportunity for professional development through attendance at the annual VAST meeting.
Criteria:
- The recipient is a teacher with a maximum of 5 years of teaching experience.
- The recipient will have sponsored student participation at the VJAS annual meeting.
- The recipient is nominated and chosen by the VJAS Committee.
- This award will be used to support the recipient's professional development by providing the funds needed to attend the annual VAST meeting. The maximum amount of the award is $500.
The Franklin D. Kizer Fund Distinguished Service Award in Honor of E. C. L. Miller
This award recognizes the exceptional contributions to VJAS of a STEM teacher.
Criteria:
- The recipient will be a teacher who has contributed to the VJAS by sponsoring student research projects, serving as a reader, judge, and/or member of the VJAS Committee.
- The teacher will be nominated and chosen by the VJAS Committee.
- The award of up to $500 will be used for professional development, and the recipient will propose a professional development activity to the Director of the VJAS. Examples of acceptable proposals include attendance to a professional meeting, tuition for a science/math course, or software to enhance their teaching effectiveness.
The Franklin D. Kizer Professional Development Stipend
This award will be presented to a teacher of the VJAS Best Research Paper Award winner.
Criteria:
- The recipient is a teacher and is active with the VJAS.
- Funds up to $500 will be used to support the professional development of a teacher-sponsor of a VJAS Best Research Paper Award winner upon their attendance at the annual AJAS/AAAS meeting.
VJAS DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
Description: A special certificate is presented to a person for exceptionally outstanding service to the VJAS, and public recognition is given at the Research Symposium. This is the most prestigious award that the VJAS gives.
Procedure: The selection of the person or persons to receive this award is the responsibility of the VJAS Committee, and recommendations may be made at any of the regular committee meetings. One or more may be chosen in any year, but it is expected that the giving of this award will not be an annual event.
Criteria: No set criteria are described. The award is given only when the time of service devoted to the VJAS and its aims is deemed exceptionally outstanding and distinguished.
VAS AWARD FOR DEDICATED SERVICE TO VJAS
Description: Highest service award of the Junior Academy. This award recognizes a past VJAS officer or VJAS member who has continued to provide support as a volunteer to the Junior Academy even after high school completion.
Procedure: The selection of the person or persons to receive this award is the responsibility of the VJAS Committee, and recommendations may be made at any of the regular committee meetings. One or more may be chosen in any year, but it is expected that the giving of this award will not be an annual event.
Criteria: No set criteria are described. The award is given only when recognition is deserved through outstanding and distinguished support.
VAS Franklin D. Kizer Teacher Development Fund Awards
The following three VAS-VJAS awards are supported by the Franklin D. Kizer Fund. The purpose of the Fund is to develop and encourage Virginia Science Teachers. The Fund was established by Art Burke and Virginia Ellett in honor of “Doc” Kizer, past State Science Superintendent, Virginia Department of Education, and first President (1952-53) of the Virginia Association of Science Teachers. Its corpus was derived from a transfer of funds to the Academy that constituted the remainder of monies used for the annual state science teachers’ conference when that conference ceased. VAS members Frank Kizer, Art Burke, and Virginia Ellett were among that conference’s leaders and coordinators. An individual may not receive each of the following awards more than once.
It is not required that any of the following awards be made each year.
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD
Description: This award is given to an individual or individuals on the VJAS Committee based on the number of volunteer hours donated. The award is between $500-$1000, with up to two awards that could be given in a year.
Procedure: The award is given at the discretion of the VJAS Director.
Criteria: No set criteria are described. The award is given only when recognition is deserved through outstanding and distinguished support.