Byram Hills High School students in the Authentic Science Research Program had a strong showing at the online Tri-County Science & Technology Fair, with one advancing to the New York State Science Congress competition.
Junior Chloe Ferreira Szilagyi placed first in the environment category and qualified to compete at the state event in June based on her high score.
Her research focused on algae in the Kensico Reservoir, one of the most vital water supplies in New York. Chloe was the first to document the types of algae in the reservoir, identifying 12 major groups of algae, as well as determining that peaks in toxin-producing cyanobacteria occurred earlier than expected. Her findings pave the way for more accurate forecasting of future harmful algae blooms in the reservoir.
“Congratulations to Chloe and all of our students who competed at the Tri-County fair and conducted outstanding original research,” said Stephanie Greenwald, director of the science research program at Byram Hills.
Senior Gavin Bunting placed second in math/computers. The third-place winners were senior Angelina Nie in biology, senior Claire Mauney in clinical/social psychology, senior Jeremy Loots in earth/space, senior Max Charney in math/computers and junior Ying Yin Chen in physics.
Students from Westchester, Rockland, and Putnam counties competed in 11 categories in the competition, which was organized by the nonprofit Putnam Children's Discovery Center.
The event has celebrated student achievement in STEM since 1994. The winners were announced on April 25.