Since entering the nationwide Kindervision/Greatest Save Teen Public Service Announcement Contest sponsored by Major League Baseball two years ago, Islip High School’s video production class won its region and was chosen as one of the top 10 National Finalists out of thousands of videos submitted from all over the country. Although Islip did not win those accolades this year, the school was selected by the Kindervision/Greatest Save PSA Committee for one of its National Spotlight Awards.

Islip’s prior entries focused on abduction (2019) and vaping (2020). This year’s PSA, recognized as the “Best New Topic,” tackled caffeine addiction. Student Chaiti Paul, who was part of last year’s National Finalist group, handled the story, script and editing.

“The pandemic certainly limited our ability to work in groups and truly experience this real-life application type of project, but nonetheless I was still amazed by the ability to get the job done,” technology teacher Mike Reilly said. “Our students did not make excuses but only found solutions in order to produce the best video possible. To be recognized again for our efforts out of thousands of videos submitted is certainly a vindication of their talent and exemplary effort.”