Houston takes top honors at Interscholastic Contest - News - Missouri State University-West Plains

After a two-year hiatus caused by covid restrictions, the Interscholastic Contest returned to Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) April 1. The team from Houston High School took top honors in the 35th annual event.

The event tests students’ knowledge in a variety of subject areas ranging from agriculture, science and math to speech, history and English.

Teams compete in one of three divisions based on school size, with first, second and third place winners announced in each division.

The overall competition winner is determined by a point system based on student scores irrespective of division, said Alex Pinnon, director of the William and Virginia Darr Honors Program and coordinator of the contest.

With their win, Houston took ownership of the coveted grand trophy which is awarded to the overall first place winner every year. Second place overall went to West Plains High School, and third place went to Winona High School.

The team from West Plains High School took top honors in Division I of the 35th annual Interscholastic Contest April 1 at Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP). Team members included, front row from left, Olivia Beard, Jacie Cotter, Mina Giurgius, Jesse Coatney, Ethon Hunsucker and Lathen Coursey. Second row: Grace Doss, Madison Rost, Layna Roylance, Drew Harris and Trevor Kinder. Third row: Clint Hinds, Jordan Kantola, Liilavatii Sharlla and John Edgeller. Back row: Jasmine Pickett, Mya Zdan, Brayden Kantola, John Marlowe, Jacob Ruhland and Aiden Simpson. (MSU-WP Photo)

West Plains placed first in Division I, Houston took first place honors in Division II, and Koshkonong School placed first in Division III.

Pinnon said many of the exam proctors reported scores on the students’ tests this year were the highest they’ve seen in several years.

“The Interscholastic Contest is always a highlight of the academic year for us. We get to host some of the best students around on our campus, and these great students get to challenge their scholastic endeavors,” Pinnon said.

For more information about the Interscholastic Contest and how to participate next year, contact Pinnon at 417-255-7965 or email APinnon@MissouriState.edu.