Mineola’s Young Scientists Shine at Stony Brook’s Science Research Competition!
🎉 Congratulations to all the finalists! The future of science is looking bright, bold, and Mineola-made! 🔬✨
📸 Photo Caption: Six Mineola learners celebrate being selected as finalists in the Stony Brook University Institute for Advanced Computational Science competition with their proud teachers, Lisa Balogh-Richards (left) and Cailin Carlson (right).
By Williston Post Staff
Move over, Einstein—Mineola’s young scientists are making waves! 🚀 Six brilliant Mineola learners recently showcased their scientific talents at Stony Brook University’s Institute for Advanced Computational Science (IACS) second annual competition, impressing judges with their creativity, research, and passion for discovery.
The competition challenged students from kindergarten through twelfth grade to create one-minute videos celebrating historic women in science—and Mineola students didn’t just participate, they stood out among 95 entries across New York State! 🎥✨
Meet the Award-Winning Scientists of Tomorrow
🥉 Sisters Julia & Valerie D’Amico took home third place for their fantastic project on Rosalind Franklin, whose work helped uncover the double-helical structure of DNA. These future biologists even conducted an experiment extracting DNA from a strawberry—talk about a berry cool way to learn science! 🍓🧬
🏅 Lucy Samarco, a second grader at Hampton Street School, won honorable mention for her research on Margaret E. Knight, the brilliant inventor behind the flat-bottomed paper bag. (Yep, you can thank her for your favorite takeout bags! 🛍️) Known as “Lady Edison”, Knight held 27 patents and 100 inventions—a true inspiration for budding engineers!
🌟 Other Mineola finalists included Leah & Riley Goncalves, who explored Marie Curie’s groundbreaking work on radioactive decay, and Margaret Gillespie, who also researched Rosalind Franklin’s DNA discoveries. These young scientists dug deep into history and brought it to life through engaging presentations.
Celebrating Curiosity & Innovation
The Mineola School District couldn’t be prouder of these exceptional learners, who poured their hearts into their research, confidently presented their findings, and wowed the judges with their curiosity and creativity. A huge shoutout to their amazing teachers, Ms. Carlson and Ms. Richards, who continue to inspire and encourage young minds to reach for the stars.
