Learn science by actually doing science.

The Field Ecology Summer Regional Governor's School is designed to inspire in you, the academically gifted student, a respect for the bountiful natural environment that is your heritage-a heritage that might soon be lost if each generation is not taught to preserve and cherish it. We aim to awaken an awareness and interest in native plant and animal life as a rich and varied natural resource. We will emphasize the interrelationships between organisms and their natural environments and on the role and impact of humans on these ecosystems.

"In school they give you a book expecting you to learn from it. In Governor's School you actually apply your knowledge so that you see why your knowledge is useful." --Student

The 2000 Governor's School backpacks in the Laurel Fork area of Highland County, Virginia.

"Best summer I ever had" --Student

See what we did in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013.

New! "Vintage" photos from 1985 through 1999.

Typical "Itinerary" for your Journey into Field Ecology of Virginia

Week 1
Introduction to Program and Campus
Woody Plant Identification; Amphibian Study--Data Collection
Outdoor skills--map & compass, camping
Three-day backpacking trip

Week 2
Amphibian Study--Data Analysis
Stream & Wetlands Ecology
Canoeing

Week 3
Three-day camping trip
Formal presentation of research results
Evaluations
Parent Reception

Transportation to and from the DSLCC campus and all meals are the responsibility of each student's family.

Students are current 8th and 9th Grade students living in the school attendance zones listed below. You have one thing in common: a desire to explore academic and/or field studies at a level not always possible in your home schools.

2001 students at Laurel Fork campsite in Highland County, Virginia.

"You aren't sitting in a classroom all day reading about science, you are out doing it--out exploring." --Student

Instructors for the Center are college and high school teachers who have experience with both the subject matter and the education of gifted students. Guest lecturers also present a variety of topics.

The program enhances your critical thinking skills and your understanding of how science works.

"Provides more than high school can--more challenging and in-depth." --Parent

In addition to challenging your intellectual skills, we feel the program should be equally demanding of your physical capacities in order that you might have a complete sense of accomplishment at the program's end.

Roaring Run Falls in Botetourt County.

"... the most mentally and physically challenging experience of my life.... wonderful, exciting, and fantastic!" --Student

"I did things I never thought I'd do." --Student

Participating School Divisions

Alleghany County	Clifton Middle School Alleghany High School
Bath County	Bath County High School
Botetourt County	Central Academy Middle School Read Mountain Middle School James River High School Lord Botetourt High School
Buena Vista	Parry McCluer Middle School Parry McCluer High School
Covington	Covington High School
Highland County	Highland High School
Lexington	Lylburn Downing Middle School
Rockbridge County	Maury River Middle School Rockbridge Middle School Rockbridge County High School

How to Apply

Applications for 2013 will be available from your guidance counselor by March 11, 2013.
Or contact Jane DeGroot at Alleghany High School.

Application FAQ
Downloadable Application
Applications may be turned into your guidance counselor or mailed directly to:
Jane DeGroot, Alleghany High School, 210 Mountaineer Dr., Covington, VA 24422

Application Timetable

Mid March	Pick up application.
Late March / Early April	Return completed application to your guidance office.
Mid April	Participants and alternates selected by their schools.
Late April	Participants notified of acceptance into the program.
Late May	Orientation session for participants and their parents.
Mid June	Governor's School begins.

"I want to come back. I wish it was all summer." --Student