students running

Oak Ridge Wins Title for 2021 Academic Decathlon El Dorado County Regional Competition

00:00 AM - February 17, 2021

Aca for web

After becoming experts of the Cold War and studying as a team since fall, Oak Ridge High School (ORHS) walked away proudly with the championship trophy. They will represent El Dorado County at the state competition in March. Jeff Hassian, ORHS coach, expressed, "During these COVID-19 times El Dorado Union High School District (EDUHSD) students have had to reach deep to overcome many things. The entire high school Academic Decathlon Team members went beyond the expectations to study the Cold War and to take more tests beyond their daily load of curriculum. In my opinion they represent the future and how to tackle adversity."

Aaron Palm, ORHS Principal, noted, “Oak Ridge is unbelievably proud of our Academic Decathlon team. In these difficult times, it was a monumental challenge for these young people and their coach. I can’t overstate the resiliency they showed in not giving up and fighting through the challenges due to COVID. It is always encouraging to see young people this engaged in academics. But this year, the team went above and beyond and are an inspiration.”

Although it could not be done in-person this year, the El Dorado County Academic Decathlon Regional Competition moved all events to virtual platforms to allow the program to continue for Decathletes and coaches. Coaches also teach high school at their respective schools and take on this extra challenge each year to support the students. Coaches included Jeff Hassian – Oak Ridge, Joseph Beatty – Ponderosa, David Conrad – El Dorado, and Alyssa Tkach – Union Mine.

The events took place on the following dates:

  • Essay Event –– Thursday, January 21
  • Speech/Interview –– Wednesday, January 27
  • Objective Tests –– Saturday, February 6
  • Awards Ceremony – Wednesday, February 10

At the Zoom awards ceremony, Dr. Ed Manansala, El Dorado County Superintendent of Schools, noted, “I am proud of the commitment and dedication of the decathletes and their coaches competing here today. I would also like to acknowledge the many EDCOE team members, coaches and community volunteers involved. This is truly a community event celebrating the very best of education in El Dorado County.”

Back Back