To bring history to life, the team has surrounded itself with genuine relics of the era. Meetings often feature fascinating artifacts such as an old Tiffany Tone radio, a vintage typewriter, a metal desk fan, and first-edition books from the time period. These tangible connections to the past help students feel the rhythm and excitement of a decade that shaped modern culture.
Liberty High’s Academic Decathlon program continues to grow through collaboration and community. Several dedicated teachers have volunteered to share their expertise with students. English teacher Dave Ziegler has passionately guided students through the complexities of The Great Gatsby, drawing from his 15 years of teaching the novel. He has already spoken twice this semester and will join again this Thursday. Art teacher Sarah Galicia captivated students with her discussion of Art Deco and the artists who defined the visual splendor of the 1920s. Science teacher Tom Johnson will meet with the team on October 28 to illuminate the science of the era, focusing on electromagnetism and circuitries, the foundation of early electrical engineering. Tim Williams, our music teacher, is slated to be the next guest speaker, enriching students’ understanding of 1920s jazz and popular music.
Academic Decathlon students have also stepped outside the classroom to explore their theme in action. On October 25, several students joined peers at Centennial High to watch a stage performance of The Great Gatsby, gaining deeper insight into the story’s emotions and atmosphere. On October 30, the team will attend a 1920s-themed concert at Highland High School to experience the era’s music firsthand. A field trip to the Getty Museum is currently in the works, promising yet another opportunity for immersive learning.
This year’s team represents every grade level, united by curiosity and determination.
Freshmen: Aliyah Alonso, Jillian Grace, Veronica Paz, Lilynne Phelps
Sophomore: Payton Benson
Juniors: Gabriella Fakrogha (2nd year), Luna Galvan-Schmidt, Ruben Gonzalez, Kylee Tucker (2nd year), Israel Ortiz, Venice Pineda
Senior: Lillian Stark (3rd year)
Competition Schedule Highlights:
November 12–14, 2025: Round 1 Practice Scrimmage (Objective System Test)
November 17–20, 2025: Round 1 Official Scrimmage
January 7–9, 2026: Round 2 Essay & Objective Practice
January 14, 2026: Official Essay (Literature, Science, Social Science)
January 20, 2026: Student Interview Zoom Practice
January 28, 2026: Interview Competition (Zoom)
February 4, 2026: Round 2 Objective Official Online (LHS Library)
February 7, 2026: In-Person Speech, Super Quiz, & Awards at Stockdale High
The team competes in three categories: Honors (3.8–4.0 GPA), Scholastic (3.4–3.79 GPA), and Varsity (below 3.4 GPA). Under a new rule, freshmen may now compete in any level as needed.
The team meets Tuesday through Thursday from 3:30–5:00 PM, with optional Friday sessions that often extend longer thanks to students’ enthusiasm and camaraderie. These gatherings have become more than study sessions—they are spaces where curiosity, teamwork, and laughter intertwine.
As coaches Rosa Rascon and Brian Hartman proudly share, “We are privileged to coach such an extraordinary group of dedicated students who love learning just as much as their coaches do.”
With momentum building and excitement in the air, Liberty High’s Academic Decathlon team is poised for a stellar season.