It’s hard to stump Wantagh Middle School sixth grader Max Mihalik about his knowledge of the world, and that’s why he emerged as the winner of the school’s annual Geography Bee on Jan. 12.

The event featured 26 sixth, seventh and eighth graders, who were the winners of preliminary rounds in their social studies classes. The schoolwide event in the library focused on United States and world geography. Seventh grade social studies teacher David Cippoletti read questions in a variety of categories that tested their knowledge of states, countries, continents, physical features and cultures. 

Max ultimately won the Geography Bee in the 17th round. He and runner-up Paul Felice competed against each other for several rounds, displaying an impressive knowledge of the world. Eighth grader Mathew Rudnicki came in third place after also finishing among the top three last year. 

Director of Humanities Julie Rosslee said that students use their knowledge both from class and their life experiences in the Geography Bee. This year’s 26 finalists represented seven Wantagh Middle School social studies teachers. 

“The concept,” Ms. Rosslee said, “is to recognize students for their knowledge of geography, but more importantly for their passion for geography.”