West Babylon Junior High School student Zarah Valentina Gomez has been named a first-place recipient of the America’s 250 Field Trip Student Contest.

Students from across the country were invited to reflect on the theme “What does America mean to you?” through original artwork or writing. Gomez’ remarkable artwork, titled “Footprints of Freedom,” earned first place for its powerful message and creative expression. The piece features a soaring eagle looking down over a map of the United States, symbolizing freedom, pride and the lasting impact of our nation’s story.

Thousands of students in grades three through 12 participated in the America’s Field Trip contest. As one of the 125 first-place awardees, Gomez will participate in a once-in-a-lifetime field trip experience this summer to one of America’s iconic historic, cultural or natural landmarks.

The 2026 class of America’s Field Trip awardees represents students from across the nation and reflects themes of community, perseverance, freedom, opportunity and service. The West Babylon School District congratulates Gomez on this outstanding accomplishment and celebrates her creativity, talent and ability to share a meaningful vision of what America represents.