The Port Jefferson Board of Education recognized middle school student Sapphire Perera on Jan. 10 for an article she wrote titled “We Enjoy Holiday Lights, But Do the Trees.”

The researched article appeared in the Dec. 15 edition of the Port Times Record after Perera submitted it for publication. The article focuses on the potential dangers holiday lights are to trees and migratory birds.

“Sapphire is an inspiration for standing up for what she believes in,” said Dr. Robert Neidig, middle school principal.