KC students awarded at academic games
Students of Karns City Area School District brought home an array of awards from the Academic Games League of America’s National Tournament in Knoxville, Tenn., last month, with one placing first in the nation.
A parade of firetrucks and sign-holding community members greeted the victorious scholars as they arrived home April 26.
Terry MacKrell, gifted coordinator for the district, said 17 students in fourth through 12th grades competed in games revolving around U.S. presidents, propaganda and the theme of the Gilded Age.
“We prepare all school year. We’re working all the time,” he said of the games. “They help students learn to manage time and work with others as a team, study skills and habits, and (learn) about the world around them.”
MacKrell said eighth-grade student Mason Bell was named the Middle Division National Champion in the presidents competition. Students in Karns City’s senior and middle divisions took third place overall in the themes category of the tournament, and elementary and middle divisions took third place overall in the presidents competition.
MacKrell said the five-day tournament had 803 competing students.
This being his second national tournament, MacKrell said he was bursting with pride for the students.
“Having students win was emotional. It was very rewarding for their hard work and dedication,” he said. “It’s about them, it’s not about me. I’m so proud of them.”
William Summerville, whose daughter competed in the games, said the Karns City team would be nothing without the dedication of MacKrell.
“He not only challenges but prepares these children to take on the regional, the state, and when we qualify, the national games,” he said. “(He) goes above and beyond in preparation and planning for these children. He truly wants all of his students to succeed, and you should see how much joy he has when they do.”
Upon returning to the school district, MacKrell and the students were greeted by lights and sirens from the firetrucks of Chicora Independent Hose Company, East Brady, Bruin, Sugarcreek Township and Petrolia Volunteer Fire departments. Parents, teachers and community members stood along Chicora’s Main Street waving and cheering on the bus all the way to Karns City High School.
“I think the parade was a wonderful gesture,” MacKrell said. “(The students) were smiling. It made them feel recognized. It’s good for them to see that the community cares about them.”
Participating students will be recognized at the Karns City Area School District board meeting Monday.
