Three students to compete at the academic UIL state meet in Austin

Sharrone King

Academic UIL medalists showcase their awards from the regional meet at Blinn College in Brenham, Texas. From left, Dr. Michaelle Coker, science coach, seniors Bolu Odunuga, Troy Manto, Ryan Moore, and Chris Perez earned second place team award in science; Ryan Moore also earned a gold medal in Ready Writing and is a state qualifier; senior Sydney French earned fifth place medals in News and Feature Writing; senior Calla Rudoph earned a 2nd place medal in Copy Editing and is a state qualifier; junior Kate Sparks earned second place in Headline writing and is a state qualifier, as well as a fourth place medal in Editorial Writing; and UIL journalism and Ready Writing coach Tracie Sullivan. Journalism competitors earned the runners-up plaque for Top Journalism Team in the region. The state meet will be May 18-19 at the University of Texas, in Austin.

Some of our very own Central Heights UIL competitors are going to compete in the State Academic UIL Competition on May 18 at the University of Texas at Austin.  

 To advance to state, these students had to place in the top three in their competitions at the regional meet at Blinn College in Brenham. Senior Ryan Moore placed first in Ready Writing, senior Calla Rudolph placed second in Copy Editing, and junior Kate Sparks placed second in Headline Writing. 

“At the regional competition, it was a four-way tie for first place, and the tie breaker got me second place, “state qualifier Calla Rudolph said. “I just love competing because grammar comes naturally to me, so copy editing was just my style.”

Competing at the academic UILstate competition gives students the opportunity to be recognized for their academic skills, and helps students realize their amazing potential.  

“Last year I got to go to the state competition, but I didn’t get to compete because I was an alternate, so I’m really excited to see how well I can do,” junior state qualifier Kate Sparks said.  “I feel like in headlines, the words just speak to me, and I know what to do.” 

With the various events UIL has to offer, there is something for every student to enjoy. These events can also be great preparation for future careers. 

“UIL is a lot of fun because there are enough different competitions that you can pick something you’re genuinely passionate about and pursue that,” state qualifier Ryan Moore said. “I intend to go into a career in writing, so the ready writing competition is good practice for that in a way.” 

For any students interested in UIL competitions, the Central Heights UIL academic coordinator Tracie Sullivan would love to discuss the various events. 

“If you are interested in UIL I would love for you to let me know next year, and we can find an event you are interested in,” Mrs. Sullivan said. “There is usually a class period that we practice our UIL events, and that gives you time to work every day and not just at home on your off hours, so if you’re interested in the UIL class period, see Mrs. McDaniels.”