On January 8, 2019, Byron-Bergen fifth grade student Allison Rimmerman became the Elementary School's first female National Geographic Geography Bee School Champion. Sixth grader Jackson Lundfelt finished in the 2nd Place Runner-Up position. Both students performed exceptionally well during the competition.
In December, almost 250 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students took the Geography Bee Qualifying Test. Twenty students competed on January 8, with five continuing to the Final Round.
“Every year the Byron-Bergen Elementary School Champion and Runner-Up have been boys,” said Bee Coordinator and Fifth Grade Teacher Ken Rogoyski. “The last time a girl won the National Championship was 26 year ago, in 1993. New York State has never had a female State Championship since the Bee started in 1989. Perhaps that will change this year. I’m very excited for Allison.”
Both Allison and Junior High Bee Champion Elizabeth Piper will be
taking the New York State Bee Qualifying Test. The 100 top School Champions
will head to Albany for the competition in March.
The Elementary School Bee is moderated and judged by enthusiastic volunteers. Retired Elementary School come back every year to volunteer their time. This year’s esteemed judges panel included the retirees Judy Boyle (Reading Teacher), Melissa Chamberlain (Kindergarten Teacher), and Paula Wade (First Grade Teacher). The Bee host and moderator was retired Sixth Grade Teacher Liz Findlay.
Congratulations to all the participating students for their hard
work.