5 Bellmore-JFK Seniors Win Prestigious Science Scholarship

BELLMORE, NY — Five Bellmore-John F. Kennedy High School seniors were named Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholars.

This is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science and math competition for high school seniors.

The scholars completed three years of independent research in their respective
school’s Advanced Science Research program. Each of the 300 Regeneron Scholars is
awarded $2,000 for themselves and $2,000 to support science and research at their
respective schools.

Gabriella Elliott was recognized for: "The Use of Diagnostic Coding Processes in the Analysis of Verbal Behaviors To Enhance Patient-Provider Connection."

Mark Prainito submitted the project: "Behavioral Responses of Mercenaria mercenaria and Crassostrea virginica Larvae to Ocean Acidification and Cochlodinium polykrikoides Toxicity: A Novel Evaluation of the Efficacy of Ulva spp. in Mitigating Stressors Threatening Bivalve Larvae in Long Island Waters."

Joleen Shau's winning project was: "The Effect of Defocus on Contrast Detection and Its Implications for Myopia Development and Prevention."

Jayden Simon submitted the project, “A Comprehensive Analysis of Novel Microorganisms Utilizing Metagenomics To Determine the Effects of Plastic Polymer Types on Microbial Communities."

Mason Tso submitted the project: "Decoding Nonverbal Social Interactions Through Eye Movements With Soft Magnetic Skin and 3D Printed Magnetometer Glasses."

"Each of our winners is an exemplary science research student with impressive academic achievements and talent in STEM," Robert Soel, the school’s science/STEAM chairperson. said. "They are critical thinkers, innovators, and truly creative young scientists."

Forty student finalists will be selected on Jan. 23 and are invited to participate in final judging, display their work to the public, meet with notable scientists and compete for awards, including the top award of $250,000.