He ‘Bee’ smart in geography!

Joseph Acampora, a fifth grade student at Centre Avenue School, won the school-level competition of the National Geographic Bee on Jan. 11 — and a chance at a $25,000 college scholarship.

“Joe is such a well informed boy,” said MaryAnn Napolitano, his fifth-grade teacher. “He uses his keen observations to learn all about the world”!

  The school-level Bee, at which students answered oral questions on geography, was the first round in the 25th annual National Geographic Bee. This year’s Bee is sponsored by Google. The kickoff of the event was the week of November 12, with thousands of schools around the United States and in the five U.S. territories participating. The school winners, including Joseph, will now take a written test; up to 100 of the top scorers on that test in each state will then be eligible to compete in their state Bee April 5.

The National Geographic Society will provide an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., for state champions and teacher-escorts to participate in the Bee national championship rounds May 20-22. The first-place national winner will receive a $25,000 college scholarship, a lifetime membership in the Society, and a trip to the Galapagos Islands, courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic.

“The geography Bee inspires children to explore the world,” said Principal Tim Silk. “Joe Acampora represents our finest at Centre Avenue School.”

“Jeopardy!” host Alex Trebek will moderate the national finals on May 22. The program will air on television. Check local listings for dates and times.