More than 800 Killeen ISD middle school students competed Saturday in the annual UIL academic meet, testing their skills in a vast array of knowledge.
Middle school teams earned points for finishing in first through sixth place in sixth, seventh and eighth grades in 14 academic events.
After the final tabulations, the Nolan Mustangs hoisted this year’s first place trophy as team members and coaches cheered with parents and other supporters.
The Patterson Cavaliers finished second in an extremely tight finish at the top. The Union Grove Grizzlies took third place. The Rancier Ka-Roos earned the Most Improved award based on last year’s and this year’s totals. Smith Middle School was recognized for the best T-shirt design.
Longtime event coordinator Bob Burns praised the hard-working students and coaches and thanked parents for their support. This year’s 15th annual meet included all 12 KISD middle schools. KISD-TV livestreamed the award ceremony.
Each time Executive Director for Curriculum Dagmar Harris read the name of another ribbon or medal recipient, applause echoed across the Nolan gym.
The wildest applause came at the end as the winning Nolan team rushed from the stands to accept the largest trophy and pose for photos.
Nolan UIL team coordinator Joanna Barraza praised the team’s commitment.
“It feels amazing. That was our goal to be first in the district since last year when we came in second. We have amazing coaches and amazing kids who have the drive to improve,” she said.
“We came together as a campus and had a common vision,” the team coordinator said. “We want to incorporate all students. This is another way to include everybody.”
One of the Mustang’s many medal winners, eighth-grader Soyou Jeon, agreed the team came together to earn the victory.
“I’m very happy. It feels like the hard work paid off. I’m proud of everyone,” she said.
Waiting with her peers as each winner picked up their prizes was a long process with a rewarding result.
“It was gut-wrenching,” said Jeon. “I was waiting for our school to be called and when it was, I screamed my heart out. I think we tried extra hard this year because we got second last year. The students and coaches worked together; it was great teamwork.
“This definitely helps us going into high school. It gives us experience in a new environment. It’s amazing. I really like it. We get nervous, but we overcome that.”
“We started with four schools now we have all schools and 14 contests,” said Burns. “They work on math, reading, social studies, chess, music, it’s all across the board. It’s a great opportunity for students who don’t excel in other areas.
“We have 850 students today and all schools are here,” he said. “When the kids get their medals, it is all worth it.”
KISD Middle School UIL Academic Meet photo gallery: https://www.flickr.com/photos/killeenisd/albums/72177720324167355/with/54361012728
