More than 900 Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) students recently took part in a transformative learning experience during the annual Geospatial Science Symposium, held April 28 and 29 at Watson Mountain Middle School. The event marked the culmination of their work in the Geospatial Science dual enrollment course offered in partnership with James Madison University (JMU) and celebrated student innovation, collaboration and community engagement.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) dual enrollment students from 15 LCPS high schools presented their final projects to JMU faculty and professionals in the field. Their projects explored self-selected research questions and tackled real-world problems through data collection, analysis and visualization using GIS technology. As part of the program, students applied critical thinking and collaboration skills to solve challenges relevant to their community—and the world.
Keynote speakers included representatives from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the LCPS Division of Planning & GIS Services and alumni from the JMU Geospatial Semester program, who highlighted the growing demand for geospatial skills and the impact students can have in addressing both local and global issues.
A project-based course, Geospatial Science offers students the opportunity to earn up to 12 college credits from JMU, fulfill science graduation requirements and gain experience that can lead to internships and future careers in geospatial technology, engineering and environmental science. Since 2006, the course has equipped more than 4000 high school juniors and seniors with workforce-ready skills in remote sensing, GIS and global positioning systems—skills used across industries from urban planning to disaster response.
As part of the course, students use software and data provided by Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) thanks to a continuing partnership.
Projects often incorporate the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which deepen student understanding of global citizenship and the role technology plays in creating positive change. This real-world lens adds meaning and impact to student work while preparing them to be socially responsible innovators.
The Geospatial Science Symposium is more than a final showcase—it’s a celebration of student curiosity, academic rigor and the power of connection between schools, universities and the broader community.
Students interested in learning more about how they can get involved in Geospatial Science should speak with their school counselor or science teacher.