On the week of February 20th, UIL academics competed in five events before their District competition.

Journalism and Computer Science students competed in Lindale, which led to Caleb Otte who secured 2nd place in Headline Writing, which was coached by Jessica Otte.

On Friday the speech and debate students traveled to Miller Grove where Payton Wages received 3rd place in persuasive speaking, which was coached by Ty Whitworth.

“I’m so proud of my journalism team and how they have worked,” said Jessica Otte, “I’m kind of bummed to see all of these seniors go, but I am excited about the challenge ahead of me to start fresh with a new team.”

In addition our Academic Rodeo award winners were honored at the Tyler Fairgrounds. Art Contestants Keilah Knight, Sarah Smith, Zamare’a Dunn, Tony Lugo, and Drew Thormer submitted work through art teachers Mark Dahlgren and Kim Taylor. Honorable Mentions went to Knight, Smith who recieved 2nd place along with Dunn, Lugo, and Thormer.

“Most competitions are more sport like, but UIL has given me the opportunity to represent who I am and a chance to show what makes me great,” said Payton Wages. “It’s a great organization full of competition and recognizes people for the great qualities they have.”

Pentathlon competitors attended the awards ceremony. Lalitha Krishnan and Samantha Butler coached Jesus Villarreal, Ezra Patterson, Lugo, Caleb Otte, Anna Nguyen, Wages, and Sydney Jackson. Each student received recognition at the Mayfair building luncheon on Wednesday the 28th.

The next UIL event will be the Districts competition that will be held on March 21st at Spring Hill high school.