ODESSA – A seventh-grader from Starkey Ranch K-8 School has been named one of 30 national finalists for the 2025 Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge.
Arshiya Ghosh will be headed to Washington, D.C. from Oct. 24 to 29 to compete for scholarships worth up to $25,000. Judges will consider student research projects and how finalists perform on STEM challenges.
With an interest in pursuing a career in oncology, Ghosh focused her research project on colorectal cancer treatment. She tested four compounds against a specific protein in the body in hopes of weakening biofilm to allow cancer treatment to work better.
“Her achievement is a powerful example of how our students are elevating to national recognition,” said Marcy Hetzler-Nettles, an assistant superintendent for Pasco County Schools.
Hetzler-Nettles specifically works with middle schools in the district. She explained to the school board on Sept. 23 how staff is working to raise student achievement.
Students at every grade level showed gains in English language arts, according to Progress Monitoring One data. Middle school students exceeded last year’s scores and this year’s state averages.
Results for middle school mathematics were mixed. Eighth-graders exceeded last year’s scores and state averages. Sixth-graders improved over last year’s scores but fell below state averages. Seventh-graders scored below last year’s numbers and this year’s state averages.
“School teams have engaged deeply in school improvement planning, increasing their technical understanding of student data and progress,” Hetzler-Nettles said. “This strategic approach is helping us tailor instruction and support to meet the needs of every learner.”
She said leadership at middle schools is trying to build cultures of accountability and achievement.
“We are actively working to refine instructional strategies, enhance intervention systems and provide professional development to elevate math achievement across all middle schools,” Hetzler-Nettles said. “This work is critical to ensure every student has the tools and support needed to succeed in mathematics.”
Thoughts on new school
Marcy Hetzler-Nettles, assistant superintendent for Pasco County Schools also weighed in on Skybrooke K-8, a new school that opened in Land O’ Lakes for the 2025-26 school year.
“The Bobcat campus launched with enthusiasm and purpose,” she said. “From house sorting traditions to our All Pro Dads chapter, Skybrooke is already building a strong foundation of school spirit and academic ambition, setting the stage for long-term success.”
