Ahsan Saleem may only be in eighth grade, but his mastery of maps, states, countries and world capitals has already made him a two-time Geography Bee champion at Wantagh Middle School.
Ahsan took first place in the school’s annual Geography Bee on Jan. 8, marking the second time he has earned the top spot in the competition. He previously won as a sixth grader, placed second last year, and now reclaims the title in his final year at the school.
The Bee, which has been a beloved tradition at Wantagh Middle School for about two decades, was once tied to the National Geographic-sponsored national event, but has continued as a local contest even after the national competition was discontinued in 2018.
This year’s competition drew nearly two dozen students from grades six through eight. The preliminary rounds were held in social studies classes, with classroom winners advancing to the finals in the school library.
In the final round, hosted by teacher David Cippoletti, students faced a broad range of questions about U.S. states, world nations, and national parks. The double-elimination format meant students remained in the competition until they answered two questions incorrectly.
Six students made it to the eighth round, but Ahsan outlasted them all. Thomas Boger, Lucas Diliberto, Aidan Ing, Taha Laghroudi and Mohitpreet Singh all tied for second place.
The event was organized by the school’s Humanities Department, led by Dr. Julie Rosslee, director of humanities for the Wantagh School District. Social studies teachers and district administrators gathered in the library to watch the finals unfold.
Ahsan’s repeat performance reflects his strong academic curiosity and passion for geography — and, teachers say, sets a high bar for students in years to come.
