ALBANY, Ga. – Westover High School senior Loralie Tarleton has been named Best in Sociology/Psychology for Class IV at the 2025 Georgia Council for the Social Studies (GCSS) State Social Studies Fair, held May 3 in Kennesaw, Georgia.
Tarleton’s project, titled “Axe of Terror: The Villisca Murders and the Quest for Justice,” delved into the psychological and sociological dimensions of the infamous 1912 Villisca axe murders. Her research stood out among entries from across the state, earning her the prestigious Ernest Lee Sr. Memorial Social Psychological Special Recognition Award.
The GCSS State Social Studies Fair is an annual competition that showcases student excellence in social science research. This year’s event featured 113 students from grades 5 through 12, representing schools across Georgia. Participants presented projects that demonstrated rigorous inquiry and analysis in various social studies disciplines.
The Ernest Lee Sr. Memorial Social Psychological Special Recognition Award honors outstanding student work that exemplifies excellence in sociology and social psychology. It commemorates the legacy of Ernest Lee Sr., a dedicated educator and advocate for social studies education in Georgia.
Tarleton’s achievement reflects the Dougherty County School System’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and critical thinking among its students.