It’s official: Polk County has the smartest students in Florida!
A team of Polk students won first place last weekend at the Commissioner’s Academic Challenge at Omni Orlando Resort. The team, comprised of public and private high school students, finished first in Division One, which features the state’s largest school districts and is generally regarded as the event’s toughest division.
The Polk County team placed third at last year’s Challenge.
The Commissioner’s Academic Challenge, first held in 1986, is officially billed as “Florida’s premier high school academic competition.” Teams from throughout the state answer questions on various academic subjects and compete for scholarships, trophies and bragging rights.
Not that we would brag … too much.
Congratulations to Team Polk:
- Jimmy Barrios, Neil Dave and Juan Landaeta from IB Bartow
- James Lovely, Liam Moraczewski and Hanley Renney from All Saints Academy
- Jacob Gmitter (alternate) from Harrison School for the Arts
- Coaches Peggy Frisbie and Chris Guice from IB Bartow
“The team had great chemistry and worked well together to earn the victory,” Guice said. “The championship is a testament not only to their intellect, but also their preparation and dedication.”