The Academic Decathlon is an annual high school academic competition organized by the non-profit United States Academic Decathlon. It is a great test of minds for students seeking a challenge that tests their intellect, teamwork and determination. This year, the team is led by Ms. Terhardt and Ms. Lee who meet in room 410 every week.
Every year, students from various high schools in the district compete against each other where they tackle essays, speeches, interviews and multiple-choice tests as well as personal performance events. The competition consists of ten events that cover a wide range of disciplines such as art, economics, literature, mathematics, science and more.
Students all compete for individual medals. In addition, the top two highest scores will count towards a team score which will then be compared to all schools across Orange County.
Each year, the United States Academic Decathlon selects a central theme tying these subjects together. This year, the curriculum theme will be Climate Change. The overall theme helps students to think critically about complex topics and find connections between the different fields of study.
Tulika Chandra (11) expresses that the Academic Decathlon is a “good way to challenge yourself and build good teamwork habits.”
Kseniia Antipina (11) adds that she likes to “spend time after school with [her] friends and wonderful teachers.” It makes her a well-rounded student, teaching her to work as a team and delve into topics she would not normally look into.
Preparing for the Academic Decathlon takes students months of studying. On top of teamwork, coaches also spend countless hours supporting students for their success. The rigorous preparation not only helps grow academic abilities but also forms essential life skills like time management, perseverance and teamwork. On top of gaining academic recognition, students learn to improve their confidence, create stronger study habits and discover a deeper appreciation for learning. To put their hard work to the test, the students will be competing on the last Saturday of January and the first Saturday of February.
Ms. Terhardt, one of the coaches, compliments that she is “very proud of the students that are part of it because they are giving up time to study academic subjects and give up Saturdays to take tests.”
The students also appreciate the care, hard work and support Ms. Terhardt and Ms. Lee give back to the students.
Students interested in joining Academic Decathlon for next year, 2025-26, can reach out to Ms. Terhardt in room 410 or look out for news about the upcoming season. Academic Decathlon is a place where students can grow their academic abilities, but it is also a place to hang out with friends and make new friends, forming lasting connections.
