HARRISBURG, PA — In a remarkable display of intellect and teamwork, West Chester East High School emerged victorious at the 2024 Pennsylvania State Academic Competition held on Friday, April 26. The competition saw 19 high school academic teams from across the state vying for the prestigious title of state champion in an event steeped in tradition and rigorous scholarly challenge.
Now celebrating its 33rd year, the competition was graciously hosted by Representative John A. Lawrence of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, with the Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA) serving as the sponsor. The event coordination was expertly handled by the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU), ensuring a smooth and engaging experience for all participants.
Jay Della Ragione, the CCIU’s special events coordinator, praised the event’s atmosphere and the level of competition, stating, “This year’s state competition showcased not only the intellectual talent of these young scholars but their exceptional sportsmanship. It’s a privilege to facilitate such a dynamic event that promotes academic excellence and team spirit.”
The championship unfolded at the Capitol, adding to the grandeur and significance of the event for the students and staff alike. After an intense day of competition, it was West Chester East High School that clinched the top spot with an impressive 100 points in the final match. Cedar Crest High School took a dignified second place with 80 points, and Upper Dublin High School rounded out the top three with 65 points. The champions, West Chester East, were awarded a $2,000 scholarship, with Cedar Crest and Upper Dublin receiving $500 scholarships for their commendable performances.
Nathan Schlamb, the coach of West Chester East High School’s academic team, expressed immense pride in his team’s achievement, highlighting the unity and collective effort that led to their success. “This victory is a testament to our team’s dedication, having built up to this moment over four years of teamwork and perseverance,” Schlamb remarked.
Ethan Altshul, a senior team member, shed light on the keys to success in academic competitions, emphasizing the importance of passion and curiosity beyond classroom learning. His teammate, Alex Chen, identified as the team’s MVP, added that the essence of their victory lay in their cohesive team dynamics and mutual support.
The Pennsylvania State Academic Competition stands as a beacon of academic excellence, promoting lifelong learning and personal development among high school students. It encourages participants to cultivate a love for knowledge while fostering essential skills in collaboration and problem-solving.
For those interested in the full list of competing teams and final scores, details can be found on the Chester County Intermediate Unit website, celebrating the achievements of all teams involved and the enriching experience the competition offers to the academic community.
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