The Bay Academy became the first public school to attend the Science Olympiad Nationals last month.

Their hard work paid off as they placed 16th. Students tell News 12 that they are proud of placing in the top 20 out of 60 teams.

Many of those going on to high school are leaving on a high and have a message for future students.

"If you keep working hard and study you can basically do anything," said student Bennett Tang.

"There's a big emphasis on getting first place, but the memories you make here are more important," said student Evan Vysotsky.

This year, there was a spike in students trying out, with 60 students vying for a spot on the team.