The Frenship High School Academic Decathlon team delivered an impressive performance at the State Competition, climbing five ranks to finish in seventh place. The team secured multiple individual medals and demonstrated significant academic growth.
Going into the competition, the team was ranked 12th among large schools with a score of 37,497.1 from the regional level. However, through their hard work and perseverance, they finished the state competition with a score of 39,040.2.
“These are significant gains, and I am so proud of how the students performed!” Cathryn Wright, Academic Decathlon Sponsor. “The mental toughness required to compete in these events is significant, and these students keep showing up and improving.”
Several students achieved individual success, earning top honors in various categories:
- Rowan Halliday: Top Scoring Varsity Team Member
- Elliot Alvarado: 3rd place in Music and Speech, 2nd place in Essay
- Julie Peterson: 3rd place in Art, Top Scoring Scholastic Team Member
- Thomas Wylie: 3rd place in Math, Science, and Essay; 2nd place in Music and Economics; Top Scoring Honors Team Member
- Nathan Layton: 2nd place in Interview, 1st place in Math as the State Champion
The team’s preparation for the state competition was both rigorous and rewarding. Coaches implemented various study techniques to keep students engaged, including interactive activities and peer-led review sessions.
“Some of the most challenging aspects of preparing for state included staying focused and finding new ways to dive into material they have studied for almost a year,” said Wright. “It was rewarding to see students gain agency over their own learning, creating PowerPoints, review games, and teaching each other.”
Beyond the competition, the Academic Decathlon experience has provided students with invaluable life skills.
“Academic Decathlon teaches students how to prioritize effectively, focus on controllable aspects of challenges, and support those around them,” said Wright. “I hope they carry these hard-won lessons with them beyond high school.”
Reflecting on this year’s success, Wright is very grateful for the team’s dedication and perseverance.
“We are just thankful we got to be a part of Frenship’s Academic Decathlon season all the way through State, and we believe these amazing young men and women will continue to excel into next year, whether that is post-graduation plans for our seniors or another year of Academic Decathlon for our juniors,” said Wright.
The Frenship Academic Decathlon team’s impressive performance at state has paved the way for even greater success ahead. Great work, Tigers!