NOTICE:  In response to concerns about exposure to the spread of viruses, including COVID-19, the Orange County Department of Education has made the decision to mitigate exposure by not holding the Academic Pentathlon competition on Saturday, March 14, 2020. We are currently working on the possibility of moving to a virtual format to be conducted at a later date and will share more details with our team coaches as soon as possible.  

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​​The Academic Pentathlon prepares students for success in college and careers by building 21st century skills in communication, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, and character.

Academic Pentathlon is an exciting five-event competition for grades six, seven, and eight. The program engages students of all achievement levels in a variety of challenging academic events.

Under the guidance of an adult coach, teams of students prepare for competition in the subject areas of fine arts (art and music), literature (including essay analysis), math, science, and social science.

The program supports the achievement of the following California Local Control and Accountability​ Plan (LCAP) priorities:

Positive Student Outcomes

Survey results from students who participated in the 2018-19 Academic Pentathlon:

• 92% reported improved skills in critical thinking
• 79% reported improved skills in communication
• 85% reported improved skills in team-work
• 78% reported development of stronger character traits

Engagement

The program encourages active involvement and collaboration of teachers, administrators, students and parents.

• 87% reported that the program helped them to build relationships with their peers
• 78% reported that the program helped them become more involved at school

Each grade level also competes in an exciting Super Quiz relay, a team event where parents, faculty, and classmates cheer for their teams from the sidelines, championing academics much like the environment of a sporting event. The top scoring teams and individual students are awarded medals and plaques.

The Orange County Academic Pentathlon is generously sponsored by Schools First Federal Credit Union. In 1988, Schools First became the primary sponsor of the Pentathlon and continues to provide generous financial and volunteer support annually.  

For additional information about Academic Pentathlon, contact Kristin Rigby at krigby@ocde.us​ or  (714) 966-4435.