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Wantagh High School Students Win Science Fair Awards

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. igh-school-students-win-science-fair-awards.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 10:06 GMT by Patch
      Locales: New York, UNITED STATES

Wantagh, NY - February 12th, 2026 - Wantagh High School's esteemed science research program has once again proven its commitment to fostering the next generation of scientists, with two student teams recently receiving awards and publication at the prestigious Long Island Science & Engineering Fair. The continued success builds upon a long-standing tradition of academic achievement within the district and highlights the value of hands-on STEM education.

This year, a team focusing on environmental science secured first place in their category, impressing judges with a detailed analysis of local water quality. Their research, which involved rigorous testing and data interpretation, shed light on potential pollutants and their impact on the surrounding ecosystem. Specifics of the project remain confidential pending the team's application for further grants, but sources within the school indicate the findings offer valuable insights for local conservation efforts. The team employed advanced analytical techniques, including spectrophotometry and chromatography, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of scientific methodology.

The second team, delving into the critical field of microbiology, earned an honorable mention for their investigation into antibiotic resistance. With the escalating global crisis of antimicrobial resistance, their work is particularly timely and significant. Their research focused on identifying potential mechanisms of resistance in common bacterial strains, utilizing cutting-edge molecular biology techniques. The team's data suggests a growing prevalence of certain resistance genes, reinforcing the urgent need for new antibiotic development and responsible antibiotic stewardship. They experimented with various antibiotic compounds and observed bacterial growth rates, painstakingly collecting and analyzing data to draw meaningful conclusions.

Both teams had their research formally published in the Long Island Science & Engineering Fair journal, providing a platform for their findings to reach a wider scientific audience. This publication is a significant achievement for high school students, often reserved for undergraduate and graduate-level research.

"This is a fantastic accomplishment for our students and a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the quality of our science research program," stated Dr. Michael Nardini, Wantagh's science research program coordinator. "We encourage students to pursue their scientific curiosities, and to develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in any field. The program isn't just about learning about science; it's about doing science."

The Wantagh High School science research program is a multi-year elective that allows students to design, conduct, and present original scientific research. Unlike typical classroom labs, the program emphasizes independent inquiry and requires students to navigate the complexities of the scientific process, from formulating a hypothesis to analyzing data and drawing conclusions. Students work closely with mentors, including Dr. Nardini and local scientists, who provide guidance and support throughout the research journey. The program also actively seeks grant funding to support student research, enabling access to advanced equipment and resources.

Over the past decade, Wantagh's science research program has consistently produced award-winning projects and college-ready students. Many alumni have gone on to pursue careers in STEM fields, attending prestigious universities and making significant contributions to scientific research. The program's success can be attributed to its holistic approach, which emphasizes not only scientific rigor but also communication skills, collaboration, and ethical conduct.

Looking ahead, Dr. Nardini is excited about expanding the program to include more opportunities for student involvement, including partnerships with local universities and research institutions. He also plans to introduce new research areas, such as artificial intelligence and biotechnology, to keep the program at the forefront of scientific innovation. The program is currently seeking donations to upgrade laboratory equipment and provide scholarships for students pursuing STEM degrees. Interested parties can contact the Wantagh High School main office for more information. The school will be hosting a public showcase of the students' research projects on March 15th, 2026, offering the community a glimpse into the future of science.