Long Island student named winner in 3M Young Scientist Challenge
Sofia Allyson Ignacio was one of 37 students nationwide to be named a state merit winner in the 2026 3M Young Scientist Challenge. Her project, Cross Assist, was designed to help pedestrians safely cross the street. Credit: Jordan Ignacio
A New Hyde Park student is walking tall after being recognized for a project that helps pedestrians cross the street.
Sofia Ignacio, a seventh grader at New Hyde Park Memorial High School, was one of 37 students nationwide named a state merit winner in the 2026 3M Young Scientist Challenge, which asked children in grades five through eight to use science to solve an everyday problem.
Sofia's project, “Cross Assist,” consists of a bar gate and a rubber mat with LED lights reading "STOP!" that can be operated from a crossing guard's belt.
"I was thinking of a way to prevent pedestrians from crossing dangerous roads while they're distracted on their phones," Sofia, 12, said. "I hope to improve my project even more in the future with AI or motion sensors."
The annual competition recognizes up to 51 state merit winners and 10 finalists based on “creativity, scientific knowledge and communication skills,” according to competition officials. Sofia was the only New York student to win in this year's competition, created by technology company 3M and the learning platform Discovery Education.
Lara Holzkamp, a math and science coach in the New Hyde Park-Garden City Park School District who encouraged Sofia to enter the competition, called her idea and prototype "outstanding."
“I knew as soon as I saw Sofia’s project it was something special," Holzkamp said.
GLEN COVE
New principal
Farrah Feygis has been named principal of Connolly Elementary School in the Glen Cove City School District. She replaced James Grossane, who held the position on an interim basis.
Feygis was previously a literacy educational consultant for Farrah Feygis LLC, and before that was a staff developer for the Advancing Literacy organization at Columbia University’s Teachers College. She also spent 10 years as a classroom teacher in Brooklyn.
“I am coming to Connolly with deep respect for the work that has already been done here, and with genuine excitement about what we will build together,” Feygis said in a statement. “Every decision I make will come back to one question: What is best for our children?"
GLEN HEAD
Interim superintendent
Tom Dolan has been named interim superintendent of the North Shore school district. He replaced Christopher Zublionis, who is now superintendent of the Plainedge school district.
Dolan, who retired as superintendent of the Great Neck Union Free School District in 2016, has since held numerous interim positions — including interim president at Nassau Community College, interim superintendent for the Sewanhaka Central High School District and interim superintendent for North Shore during the 2021-22 school year.
“I have been told that you can't step in the same river twice, because that river is always changing,” Dolan said. “That may be, but returning to North Shore as interim superintendent sure feels familiar and comfortable. I am genuinely honored to be given a chance to work with this all-star team of administrators, teachers, parents and students.”
MALVERNE
New principal
Joseph Kuehn has been appointed principal of Maurice W. Downing Primary School in the Malverne Union Free School District.
Kuehn, who replaced Erik Walter, was previously assistant principal of the district’s Howard T. Herber Middle School since 2023. Before that, he was a summer program principal and a sixth grade math and science teacher in Jericho.
“Downing plays a critical role in shaping the very foundation of each child's educational journey,” Kuehn said in a statement. “My vision is clear: ensuring that every child is known, supported and inspired to become a proficient reader and lifelong learner who enters third grade with confidence and enthusiasm."
DIX HILLS
New principal
Maria Belfiore is the new principal of Half Hollow Hills High School West in the Half Hollow Hills Central School District. She replaced Michael Catapano, who retired.
Belfiore previously served three years as an assistant principal at the district’s High School East and two years as an assistant principal at the district’s Candlewood Middle School. Before that, she taught social studies and special education.
“It is a privilege to lead within a community where high expectations are the standard and possibilities are truly limitless,” Belfiore said in a statement. “I look forward to working with students, staff and families and building an environment where every learner can reach their full potential.”
ELWOOD
New principal
Lindsay Fritch has been named principal of Elwood-John H. Glenn High School. She will replace Irene McLaughlin, who held the position on an interim basis.
Fritch previously served as the school’s assistant principal since 2023. Before that, she was a special education teacher and chairwoman for the South Country Central School District in East Patchogue and a high school history teacher in Philadelphia.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to continue my professional journey within a district as dedicated and supportive as Elwood,” Fritch said in a statement. “Having served as an administrator in this district, I’ve seen firsthand the heart of the John Glenn community. I am eager to embrace the responsibilities of principal and look forward to hitting the ground running as we work together to support the achievement of every student.”
SHOREHAM
New principal
Christopher Molinelli has been appointed principal of Miller Avenue Elementary School in the Shoreham-Wading River Central School District. He replaced Claudia Smith, now principal of the district’s Albert G. Prodell Middle School.
Molinelli previously served as principal of John Quincy Adams Primary School in Deer Park for the past 11 years. Before that, he was an elementary teacher for 14 years.
“Words cannot describe the excitement I feel in joining the Shoreham-Wading River team,” Molinelli said. “I look forward to getting to know our staff, students and families, building meaningful relationships, and working together to build upon the excellent work already taking place to help every child thrive.”
Michael R. Ebert is an education researcher and has worked for Newsday in various capacities since 2003. He was part of an 11-person team named as 2008 Pulitzer Prize finalists for investigative coverage of the LIRR's platform safety issues.
