The Central High School District had four students in its Advanced Science Research Programs recognized as finalists in the recent Long Island Science and Engineering Fair, earning top placements across multiple categories. 

Daniel Lin, a senior at Kennedy High School, earned second place in Transitional Medical Science for his project, “Liquid Lens-Based Automation of Accommodative Facility Testing in Myopia.” His research explores innovative methods for improving vision testing technology. 

Also earning second place, in the Biomedical and Health Sciences category, is Alexandra LaBella, a senior at Kennedy High School. Her project, “The Effects of Adolescent Isolation on Social Behavior and Neural Activity Utilizing Brain Tissue from TRAP2 Male Mice,” investigates the neurological impacts of social isolation. 

Two additional students were recognized with honorable mention in the Animal Science category. Kyle Wasserman, a senior at Kennedy High School, was honored for his research, “The Synergistic Effect of Spermidine and Urolithin A on Muscular Degeneration in a Drosophila melanogaster Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Model.” 

Barbi Frank serves as their Advanced Science Research teacher at Kennedy High School. 

“These outstanding achievements reflect the dedication, curiosity, and perseverance of our Advanced Science Research students,” noted Frank. 

Salvatore LoBrutto, a senior at Mepham High School, received honorable mention for his project, “Trabecular Bone Adaptation to Mechanical Stimuli in Proximal and Distal Regions of Canine Fabellae.” LoBrutto is supported by Advanced Science Research teacher Dr. David Kommor. 

The Long Island Science and Engineering Fair is one of the region’s most competitive academic events, showcasing original research from top high school students across a wide range of scientific disciplines.