Hills East Students to Appear on "The Challenge"

Hills East High School was recently chosen to participate in MSG Varsity's "The Challenge" against St. John the Baptist High School.  The episode will air on Monday, November 22, at 5:30 p.m. on Cablevision's channel 14. 

The popular high school quiz show, which will kick off its 14th season, tests students' knowledge of history, arts, current events, science, math and literature.  It's hosted by Jared Cotter, formerly of FUSE TV and semi-finalist of American Idol.  It's Cotter's second year as host and moderator. 

Leading the Hills East team will be Aaron Schwartz (captain), Isaac Vingan, Harshil Mattoo, Mark Lobo and Dan Friedman (alternate). Patrick Breig is the advisor for the academic team at Hills East. 

"We're thrilled to provide these students from Half Hollow Hills High School East and St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School the opportunity to showcase their talent with their community," General Manager of MSG Varsity, Theresa Chillianis said in a release. "The Challenge features some of the brightest students from across the tri-state area and we hope everyone will tune-in to see them compete for Tri-State Championship."

Hills East principal Jeff Woodberry said, "Our students excel in many areas, especially academics.  I'm sure they will be very competitive and make us all proud!" 

Schools throughout the tri-state area advance in the tournament through a series of elimination rounds.  After a few months of competition, one school in each region is crowned regional champ, and will collect $2,500 for their school. 

The final winning teams from each region will advance to The Challenge Championship against another school from the tri-state area.  The school crowned Tri-State Champion will receive $10,000 and each student participating in the finals will receive $500.