Henrico County Public Schools

Henrico County Public Schools, in partnership with the Virginia Environmental Network (VEN) Region 1, will launch the VEN Region 1 SPARK for the Environment Symposium (Student Projects Advancing Research & Knowledge), a regional environmental research showcase for high school students. Students will engage in authentic scientific inquiry and present original environmental research through professional poster displays in a symposium setting that mirrors real-world scientific conferences. Support will be provided to ensure equitable access for students across participating

school divisions.

The SPARK for the Environment Symposium is designed to reduce barriers to participation by providing project supply funding—prioritizing students from schools with higher rates of economic need—as well as transportation and meal support. Students will also have opportunities to engage with community partners and STEM professionals, strengthening connections between classroom learning and real-world environmental challenges. All student research posters will be digitally archived to extend the impact beyond the event and serve as a resource for schools and the broader community. Through this experience, students will build critical research and communication skills while developing as the next generation of environmental problem-solvers.