The Orange County Academic Decathlon struck an emotional high note with the Super Quiz Relay on Saturday, and OCDE’s Media Services team was there to capture some of the highlights. Check out our video above.
More than 30 high school teams from across the county participated in the challenge, which famously blends a rigorous academic contest with the intensity of a sporting match.
The second day of the decathlon, which was held at Westminster High School, showcased the versatility of its OCAD competitors. Before the Super Quiz Relay even started, students had tackled 30-minute tests in subjects ranging from art to science, demonstrating their depth of knowledge and critical thinking skills.
The Orange County Academic Decathlon began a week earlier, on Jan. 27, with speeches and personal interviews. The awards ceremony is set for Feb. 9 at Orange Coast College.
Founded in 1968 by former Orange County Superintendent Dr. Robert Peterson, who envisioned “a decathlon of studies,” academic decathlons are now held all over the country.
Each team of nine must include three “Honor” students (GPAs of 3.8 and above), three “Scholastic” students (GPAs between 3.20 and 3.79) and three “Varsity” students (GPAs of 3.199 and below).
For more information on the Orange County Academic Decathlon, or if you’re interested in starting a team at your school, visit ocde.us/Decathlon.