Sky’s the limit: Colonial Forge senior A.J. Staton shoots for the stars as National Merit semifinalist

STAFFORD, Va. — Stafford County’s own A.J. Staton, a senior at Colonial Forge High School, is reaching for the stars both literally and figuratively! Recently named a semifinalist in the prestigious 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program, Staton has proven that hard work and a passion for learning can take you to new heights.

With over 16,000 semifinalists nationwide, A.J. stands out, not just for his academic excellence, but for his love of all things space. Ever since he was a kid, he’s been dreaming big, like building satellites and studying Aerospace Engineering at Virginia Tech big. That’s right, A.J.’s aiming for the stars, with plans to use data and AI to make life on Earth better for all of us.

Balancing four AP classes, two Engineering courses, and two music classes, A.J. somehow still finds time to skate and jam out in his spare time. His principal, Gregory Daniel, couldn’t be prouder, calling A.J.’s achievement a reflection of the top-notch education at Colonial Forge and in Stafford County.

To make it to the final round, A.J. along with CFHS will need to submit a detailed application that showcases his stellar academic record, leadership, and extracurriculars, along with writing an essay and proving his smarts once again with top SAT or ACT scores. If he makes it through, A.J. will have the chance to win one of thousands of National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $26 million.

Acting Superintendent Chris R. Fulmer says A.J.’s dedication is an inspiration to students and teachers alike, and we couldn’t agree more.