The eighth-grader has participated in a series of geography bees since November. As one of the top scorers in the state, he will participate in the national semifinals, which will take place on April 5.
The winner at the state competition will receive a $100 prize, as well as a trip to Washington, D.C. to represent New York in the national finals. The finals will take place from May 20 through May 22 at the National Geographic Society Headquarters.
The winner of the national final will earn a $25,000 and a trip to explore geography first-hand with a trip to the Galapagos Islands with a parent or guardian.
Newman’s parents said that their son has been interested in the subject matter for his entire life.
“Josh has always been fascinated by geography,” his mother, Kathryn said. “When he was in first grade, he got his first atlas and would spend hours studying maps of different countries.”
“Josh is thrilled to represent Tuckahoe Middle School in the bee,” his father Mark added. “He loves geography and learning about the world.”
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