Seven OPS Students Headed to National Academic Competition

OWASSO – Seven Owasso Public Schools elementary students are trading their last few days of school for study guides as they prepare to compete at the National Championships for the Geography, History, and Science Bees, May 21-25, in Orlando, Fla.

The students secured their spots during a Regional Competition held at Hodson Elementary on November 8, 2025. The event, hosted by International Academic Competitions (IAC), featured fast-paced, buzzer-style rounds that tested the limits of the students' knowledge across multiple disciplines.

The National Qualifiers include:

Drew Carter - 4th Grade; Mills Elementary
Henley Hatch - 5th Grade; Bailey Elementary
McKenzie Lohrenz - 4th Grade; Stone Canyon Elementary
Minnie Mester - 4th Grade; Hodson Elementary
Adysyn Murphy - 3rd Grade; Hodson Elementary
James Nguyen - 4th Grade Hodson Elementary
Lilian Underwood - 5th Grade; Bailey Elementary

The IAC was founded in 2010 by 19-day Jeopardy! champion David Madden. Efforts to bring these opportunities to the District are led by Mrs. Laura Hayes, Enrichment Specialist at Hodson Elementary. Since launching the regional hub in spring 2025, Hayes hopes to see the program grow.

"We hope this continues to grow into an exciting academic tradition that celebrates curiosity and critical thinking," said Hayes.

The next regional event is already scheduled for January 23, 2027. Any K–12 student can participate by passing an online qualifying quiz.

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