The Middle Country Central School District is proud to recognize four outstanding students as its March Students of the Month. Representing Centereach High School, Newfield High School, Selden Middle School, and Dawnwood Middle School, these students exemplify academic excellence, leadership, perseverance, and a strong commitment to their school communities.
Centereach High School student Lillian Bender is an exceptional student whose achievements span academics, athletics, music, and community involvement. She has pursued a rigorous academic program, including honors, Advanced Placement, and college-level coursework, earning recognition from the College Board as a Scholar with Distinction. By graduation, she will have completed seven AP courses and five college-level classes. A member of both the National Honor Society and French Honor Society, Lillian is deeply committed to the school’s music program. She serves as Treasurer of the Tri-M Music Honor Society and performs in the Chamber and Pit Orchestras. Her excellence has been recognized with the prestigious Marc Greene Award.
Athletically, Lillian is a dedicated member of the track team, competing in hurdles events and demonstrating leadership and sportsmanship. Coaches and teachers alike praise her work ethic, positivity, and ability to inspire others. Outside of school, she has volunteered more than 120 hours with the Smithtown Historical Society. Lillian plans to study Marine Biology in college, with aspirations of contributing to ocean conservation.
Newfield High School Student Matthew Bedus represents the very best of Newfield High School. A three-season varsity athlete, he serves as captain of both the football and track and field teams and was recently honored with the 2026 Football Coaches Award. Known for his determination and relentless effort, Matthew leads both on and off the field. Matthew is also enrolled in the Law Enforcement program at the BOCES Academy of Applied Technology, where he currently ranks at the top of his class. He has earned multiple certifications, including CPR, First Aid, AED, and Active Shooter Response, and holds a New York State Security Guard License. He has also been selected to attend a week-long experience at the Suffolk County Police Academy.
Planning to attend SUNY Farmingdale, Matthew intends to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice and ultimately become a Suffolk County Police Officer. Driven by a desire to help others, he views his future career as a calling. Teachers describe him as respectful, mature, and a true role model.
Selden Middle School student Joseph Geraci is recognized for his strong character, academic success, and positive attitude. With an impressive 97.4 GPA, Joseph demonstrates a genuine love of learning, particularly in social studies. Teachers consistently praise his work ethic, kindness, and leadership.
Joseph is an active student-athlete who participates in travel and recreational baseball, as well as taekwondo and flag football. He also gives back to his community by volunteering at a day camp and mentoring younger athletes. Known for his humility and willingness to help others, Joseph embodies the values of Selden Middle School. As he looks toward the future, he is interested in pursuing a career connected to sports and continues to explore his passions with enthusiasm and determination.
Dawnwood Middle School, Yong Tang’s journey is one of perseverance, courage, and remarkable growth. Arriving in the United States just over two years ago without speaking English, Yong has embraced every challenge with determination and positivity. Today, he is a confident, engaged, and enthusiastic member of the Dawnwood community. Yong participates in the Technology Club and plays on the school’s tennis team. He excels academically, particularly in math, and enjoys hands-on learning in technology and Family and Consumer Sciences classes. Teachers describe him as hardworking, kind, and full of energy, with a contagious sense of humor and positivity.
Fluent in multiple languages and dedicated to his studies, Yong hopes to one day become a technology teacher, inspiring others to create and innovate. His growth and resilience make him a shining example for his peers.