RHS Competes in First-Ever Envirothon Team at LI Regional Competition

For the first time in school history, Roslyn High School fielded a team at the Long Island Regional Envirothon—held April 22, 2026—marking an exciting milestone for the district’s science program and student environmental engagement. The Envirothon is an annual environmental studies competition for Nassau and Suffolk County high school students, which engages students in hands-on learning experiences focused on the protection, preservation, and restoration of natural resources, fostering a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship.

Students competed in six rounds, being tested on their knowledge of forestry, wildlife, aquatics, soil, and current issues affecting our environment. The 2026 theme centered on non-point source pollution, including runoff from fertilizers and pesticides.

Competing in timed written exams held outdoors, students identified plant specimens, bird calls, animal tracks, and other natural indicators while demonstrating deep content knowledge and problem-solving skills. Teams also prepared and delivered presentations before a panel of scientists and government officials specializing in environmental protection, responding to questions that tested both their expertise and composure under pressure.

Roslyn’s team rose to the challenge with strong collaboration, creativity, and confidence. Throughout the day, students showcased both their scientific knowledge and their ability to think critically in real-world environmental contexts. In addition to the competition experience, students gained valuable insight into careers in environmental science and learned more about local conservation efforts, including the work of the Nassau County Soil & Water Conservation District.

The team was led by captain Emily Harrydath, who served as the wildlife expert and helped guide preparation and coordination of the group’s presentation. Team members included Anne Goldstein (forestry expert), Anna Miranda (current issue expert), Luna Zilko (aquatics expert), and Alexia Rubin (soil expert).

Science teacher Ms. Pfennig, who organized and coached Roslyn’s inaugural team, learned about the competition through Science Chair Gary Ramonetti and worked to assemble and prepare students for this first-time opportunity. She credited the support of Mr. Romanetti and Assistant Principal Sandra Stueber for helping to make the team’s participation possible.

“I am so proud of these students,” said Ms. Pfennig. “They devoted time outside of school to studying and preparing for this competition. The judges and I were impressed with their level of knowledge and professionalism. Plus, they had fun and can’t wait to try again next year. We were a competitive team and were just shy of placing.”