There are no words to capture the sense of pride I had not only when our students crossed the stage or the team was announced but also when students from other school districts came up to our students and asked for advice as they build their team.  I am thrilled to share some incredible news with you all—our Oakwood High School Academic Decathlon Team has once again emerged as National Champions in their division! This marks an extraordinary twelfth consecutive victory, a testament to our students' unwavering dedication and brilliance.

I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every member of the Academic Decathlon Team. Their hard work, determination, and intellectual grit have brought immense pride to our school and community. Their commitment to excellence exemplifies the spirit of Oakwood High School.

The nine-member championship team earned 65 individual medals across the subject areas and achieved eight out of nine total individual overall score awards in the three G.P.A. divisions, earning a combined total of $6,000 in scholarship awards. Earning individual overall score awards were:

• Rohan Haack - 1st overall Honors division; also highest scoring student on Oakwood’s team
• Joseph Hong - 2nd overall Honors division
• Anna Weaver - 3rd overall Honors division
• Alex Devgan - 1st overall Scholastic division
• Brian Fischer - 2nd overall Scholastic division
• Grace Stafford - 3rd overall Scholastic division; received a perfect 1000 in the interview event
• Ian Brooks - 1st overall Varsity division
• Daniel Wang - 2nd overall Varsity division

 

Additionally, Alex Devgan received special recognition as the Most Valuable Team Member. 

Twelve high-scoring individual decathletes from Oakwood received invitations to compete at the National Competition in the individual category. These students accrued 13 medals across the subject areas. 

Competing on the team this year are Ian Brooks, Alex Devgan, Brian Fischer, Rohan Haack, Joseph Hong, Grace Stafford, Julian Uhlman, Daniel Wang, and Anna Weaver. Competing as individuals this year are Isak Autrey, Alayna Brown, Jack Campbell, Ty Fischer, Audrey Havrilla, Aiden Horton, Becket Jacobsen, Max Kiernan, Gabriella LaPerle, Will Steipp, Danny Vásconez, and Sia Zois.

Similar to the response our students gave to other students looking for what would help them to be most successful, I would be remiss if I didn't take a moment to recognize the exceptional leadership of our Head Coach, Mrs. Morris. Mrs. Morris’s guidance, mentorship, and unwavering belief in our students have been instrumental in their success. As I checked in on the students throughout the school year, I noticed that she has a way of empowering the students to lead and build a sense of community to support one another.

I also want to express my gratitude to the other assistant coaches, Marie Jergens and Jeff Blumer, who played a vital role in shaping our students' academic journey. They showed a great amount of support, encouragement, and positivity that fostered their success. Additionally, I am thankful to the families and volunteers whose unwavering support and positive influence helped our students thrive.

Beyond academic success, what sets our Academic Decathlon Team apart is the culture of kindness, respect, and inclusivity they have cultivated. Together, it was evident that they created a vibrant learning community where everyone felt valued and supported. Their willingness to uplift and assist one another not only contributed to their success but has also enriched the fabric of our school community.

The team would like to thank this year’s business sponsors for their donations to the team: Ashley’s Pastry Shop, Digestive Specialists, Inc., GoHypersonic, Meyers Printing and Design, and Robert K. Jones Insurance Agency.

In closing, I am immensely proud of our Academic Decathlon Team and all that they have accomplished. Their dedication, teamwork, and exemplary sportsmanship embody the very best of Oakwood High School. Congratulations once again on this outstanding achievement!