Coventry students honored for Academic Decathlon, SkillsUSA medals

The Coventry School Committee honored members of Coventry High School's Academic Decathlon team after advisor Kelly Arenikis told the committee her students won 14 individual medals and finished third in the state.

"This year we won 14 individual medals," Arenikis said, introducing students Braden Peasley, Adriel Gemma and Gavin Walker who represented the 14-student team at the meeting. Arenikis described Academic Decathlon as a multi-event competition with seven content tests, two interviews and speech events and said the team plans to field two teams next year; she estimated the additional team would cost about $600.

Members praised the students' commitment. Member Jack Vona asked how long the program has been at the school; Arenikis said this was the program's second year in its current form. Multiple members encouraged expanding the program and noted its benefit for college applications.

Superintendent Don Cowart also highlighted recent SkillsUSA results and said medalists may have national travel opportunities. He estimated the expense at "probably about $2,200 per student including airfare, hotel, and entrance into the competition." Cowart and members noted some national competition dates conflict with graduation for seniors, which may affect who travels.

The committee presented certificates to the three students in attendance and congratulated the team. Members discussed funding and fundraising options to lower travel costs and supported exploring a second team for next year.