2010-06-10 / Schools

Two local schools advance to N.J. finals of ‘Challenge’

The academic teams from two area high schools have dominated every school they’ve faced, and now viewers of “The Challenge” can see which one is New Jersey’s best.

East Brunswick High School will compete against John P. Stevens High School of Edison in the New Jersey Finals match of MSG Varsity’s academic quiz show when it airs at 6:30 p.m. June 10. The show will repeat on News 12 New Jersey on June 12 and 13 at 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

“The Challenge” is designed to test students’ knowledge in a Jeopardy-style format. The winner of the match will receive a trophy and $2,500 for their school. The team will then move on to compete in the Tri-State Regionals.

“Still undefeated, these teams are the best of the best in this year’s season of ‘The Challenge,’ ” said Theresa Chillianis, MSG Varsity’s general manager. “They have proven their expertise in areas such as math, science, global events, history, popular culture, art and literature. We wish both teams success in the upcoming finals match.”

Representing John P. Stevens is Kunal Bailoor, Kaishuo Chen, Valentina Lyau, team captain Alex Silady and Kevin Zhang. The academic advisers are Richard Alfanzo and Bohdanna Vitvitsky.

East Brunswick is represented by Samantha Dixon, Karen Nan, Scott Schubert, team captain Stephen Smilowitz and Tony Song. The academic advisers are Beth Logan and Marilyn Ryan.

“The Challenge” began as a Long Island, N.Y., effort 13 years ago and now includes the entire tri-state area. Some 184 high schools participated this season with the goal of becoming the Tri-State Challenge Champion and winning $10,000 for their school and $500 for each team member competing in that final round.

Jared Cotter, a semifinalist from “American Idol,” serves as moderator.

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