By Caitlyn Peters Posted March 28, 2025
Academic Challenge is a trivia-based competition where students compete in teams of six against other schools. This season has been filled with wins and losses. The team has studied hard to have the best season possible; they’ve gone to regionals and gone to the state competition. In the post-season, the team was proud to have won 4th in the state championships on Monday, February 24. The team was made up mainly of seniors, including team captain Caleb Hales. Hales inspired the team to remember that the game is not about winning but having fun.
“The most memorable moment would have to be when Lennox [Zebroski] answered Jackie Chan on a question,” said Hales. “I immediately subbed him out of the round following the response.”
This instance became an ongoing joke amongst team members; when an answer was unknown, people would answer “Jackie Chan” for a laugh.
Senior George Arellano Gonzalez has only been on the team for two seasons, but has dedicated time outside of practice to prepare for competitions.
“I found that for me, personally, watching video essays on topics that I found interesting but didn’t have much experience in was how I prepared,” said Arellano Gonzalez. “Just seeking to know more about a broad range of topics was what helped me do my best.”
Ms. Miranda Santos served as the advisor for several years and stepped down at the end of this season.
“What started as a request from a few passionate freshmen became a journey of excellence through their senior year,” said Santos. “From long-time members to a couple of new faces, it’s been an honor to work with such bright, dedicated students who’ve made Academic Challenge truly special.”
