For Immediate Release:
April 21, 2014
Freeholders recognize
Biotech High School students
Winners of a national competition
FREEHOLD, NJ – Last week, the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders recognized six Biotechnology High School students who won the nationwide Verizon Innovative App Challenge.
“It is truly remarkable that out of the hundreds of high schools in New Jersey, Biotechnology created the mobile app to win ‘Best in State’ and ‘Best in Region’ in the Verizon competition,” said Freeholder Director Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the County Vocational Board of Education. “These students, and their advisor, have brought pride to themselves, their school and the entire County.”
The team of students received the “Best Educational App” designation in the national competition. The team’s “No Species Left Behind” app conceptually identifies both invasive and endangered plants using facial recognition-like software to educate and raise awareness of these species.
“The Monmouth County Vocational School students and staff never cease to amaze us,” said Freeholder Deputy Director Gary J. Rich, Sr. “From top SAT scores to recognition of being the best schools in the state and the country to winning national competitions, they have demonstrated a true commitment to excellence.”
The students who participated in the Verizon Innovative App Challenge were Sara Camelli, Sara Ferenz, Mathuchena Karthikeyan, Amy Lee, Kellie Lemoine and Phoebe Mak. Their advisor was English teacher William Hercek.
The Verizon Innovative App Challenge is a competition open to middle and high school students that provides the opportunity for a small group of students, working with a faculty advisor, to develop an original mobile app concept that incorporates science, technology, engineering and math and addresses a need or problem in their school or community.
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