Sam Nowack, currently a ninth grade student at the Jr.-Sr. High School, was named a Merit Winner in the 2025 New York State Student Research Awards Competition. The annual competition is designed to empower students to become historians by encouraging their engagement in original research through exploration of primary resources found in archives, libraries and historical societies across the state.

Mentored by eighth grade social studies teacher Mr. Joe Pfeffer, Sam researched the role of the oyster industry on Long Island. His research was prompted by stories from his family’s role in the industry during the late 1800s to early 1900s.

The competition is open to students in grades 4-12 and assists students in developing critical thinking and analytic skills and the ability to communicate their findings through a variety of formats. Student researchers also engage in thoughtful inquiry and purposeful storytelling that connects historical events to broader themes and human experiences.

The district congratulates Sam on this outstanding academic achievement.