Cole Stern of Kennedy High School was named one of 300 Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholars nationwide in this year’s competition! Cole’s achievement was announced on Jan. 7.  

“Cole was selected from thousands of applicants nationwide based on the originality and rigor of his independent research, the quality of his technical writing and his demonstrated future potential as a scientist,” noted Roger Bing, a district science and STEAM chairperson. 

Stern’s research project, “Investigating the September 29, 2023, Tri-State Flooding Event: A WRF-Based Analysis of Tropical Storm Ophelia, Elevated Sea Surface Temperatures and Their Role in Enhancing Extreme Rainfall,” examined the atmospheric conditions that led to a historic flooding event in the region. Completed under the direction of ASR Director Barbi Frank and teacher Orquidea Afonso-Ancieto, the project used advanced atmospheric modeling and extensive data analysis to explore how record-warm ocean temperatures intensified extreme rainfall.  

The topic was inspired by both personal experience and a lifelong fascination with weather. Stern recalled walking home during the prolonged downpours in late September 2023 and becoming curious about the factors behind the event. “I have always been captivated by the weather, from blizzards at home to hurricanes on the other side of the globe,” he said. “When I noticed that the moisture associated with this event traversed record-warm Atlantic Ocean waters, I realized this topic would have real implications for forecasting efforts and improving our knowledge of how climate change impacts these costly events.” 

Throughout the research process, Stern was surprised by how integral coding is to modern meteorology. After learning that most projects rely heavily on programming, he spent hundreds of hours teaching himself Python and mastering the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model used in his study. He credits the district’s Advanced Science Research (ASR) Program with helping him develop critical life skills, particularly communication. “From emails to presentations, I have been transformed into an assertive, well-spoken, and well-written communicator,” Stern said. “The ability to present findings clearly and confidently is something I will carry with me into the future.” 

Stern is one of 10 Kennedy High School seniors, and several students from Calhoun and Mepham High Schools, who submitted projects this year through the district’s ASR Program. 

“Each has completed three years of rigorous independent research investigation while demonstrating perseverance and passion for science,” added Bing. Each Regeneron STS Scholar receives a $2,000 award, along with an additional $2,000 to support science research at their school. 

Looking ahead, Stern plans to continue studying meteorology and conducting research in college, with the goal of improving disaster preparedness and predictive weather models. 

“Cole’s passion is what truly makes him shine - it’s evident in his writing, his presentations, and in his recognition as an STS Scholar,” said Frank. “I am incredibly proud of his accomplishments and fortunate to work with such an extraordinary group of hardworking students who are already making their mark on the world while still in high school.”